Report by Ms. Lorena Schlicht, Mayors for Peace France (AFCDRP)
At the United Nations in New York, in preparation for the Peace and the Future Summit, Philippe Rio (Mayor of Grigny and President of Mayors for Peace France) participated in the World Assembly of Local and Regional Governments, opened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The assembly emphasized the importance of international solidarity driven by cities and the crucial role of inter-city cooperation in fostering peace and friendship among peoples.
Supported by key associations like United Cities France (CUF) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), French local officials, including Anne Hidalgo (Paris), Véronique Bertholet (Strasbourg), Élise Perreira-Nunes (Tours), Clare Hart (Montpellier Métropole), and André Viola (Aude), formed a strong delegation.
Philippe Rio advocated for city diplomacy, peace, cooperation, and a feminist municipal vision. The final resolution of the Pact for the Future acknowledges the essential role of local governments in addressing global challenges like poverty, peace, and climate issues. While much work remains, local leaders continue to push for multilateralism and the inclusion of local authorities in solving worldwide problems. Local realities often provide the solutions to global challenges.
Photos: courtesy of Mayors for Peace France