October 8-10, 2024 | UCLG ASPAC participated in the 2024 UCLG World Council, held from October 8 to 10 in the Hague, Netherlands, hosted by Mayor Jan van Zanen and organised in collaboration with the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG). UCLG ASPAC joined over 300 local government leaders, experts, and stakeholders convening to discuss critical issues affecting urban governance and sustainable development, on the theme, “A New Peace Agenda for Future Generations,” underscoring the vital role of local governments in peacebuilding. On this occasion, UCLG ASPAC also promoted the upcoming UCLG ASPAC Congress 2025 in Goyang to all regions.
Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, Secretary General of UCLG ASPAC, represented the Organisation in multiple high-level discussions during the event. The World Council focused on key policy areas, including peacebuilding, equality, and innovative governance strategies. One of the highlights was the Open Round-Table Dialogue: Driving Economies of Equality to Finance the Care Agenda.
Beyond the statutory meetings and policy debates, UCLG ASPAC strengthened interregional and global partnerships. Decisions made included Jeonju City and Xi’an City hosting the 2025 World Culture Summit in October and the 2025 UCLG World Council in November, respectively, signalling a strong presence of the Asia-Pacific region on the global stage. Collaborative discussions with Metropolis and other UCLG sections also explored potential city pairings and shared expertise on water management and waste reduction solutions.
Several changes to the UCLG Governing Bodies were adopted, marking the transition of Mayor Uğur Ibrahim Altay of Konya’s second term as UCLG President (2023-2024). From the end of 2024 to 2025, Mr. Jan Van Zanen, Mayor of the Hague and President of VNG (The Association of Netherlands Municipalities), will serve as UCLG President. Mr. Dakila Carlo Cua, President of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines and UCLG ASPAC, was appointed as the Vice-President of UCLG for the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways:
- Peace and Sustainability Agenda: The event highlighted the role of local governments in promoting peace through sustainable, inclusive policies that cater to the needs of future generations.
- Partnerships and City Pairing: UCLG ASPAC explored deeper collaborations with cities worldwide, particularly in initiatives like Nature-Based Solutions, solid waste management, and the Urban Mekong Corridor Initiative.
- Future Events: UCLG ASPAC confirmed upcoming strategic events, including the 2025 UCLG ASPAC Congress in Goyang, South Korea, which will serve as a platform for further knowledge exchange among local governments.
As we look towards the future, UCLG ASPAC remains committed to fostering collaboration and peace, ensuring that local governments are well-equipped to address the complex challenges of the 21st century.
For more updates and upcoming events, visit www.uclg-aspac.org.
All photos by: Martijn Beekman
