Report by Ms. Lorena Schlicht, Mayors for Peace France (AFCDRP)
Clare Hart, Vice-President of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, along with Lamine Camara, Regional Councillor for Île-de-France and elected official of the City of Grigny (representing the Mayor of Grigny and President of Mayors for Peace France), discussed decentralized cooperation, city diplomacy, and the culture of peace during the Summer University. The exchanges emphasized the universal desire for peace, echoing Ban Ki-moon’s statement that peace begins not at the UN or in Geneva, but in villages and cities led by enlightened leaders.
City diplomacy supports local governments’ efforts towards peace and decentralized cooperation. Although not mandatory, many cities have historically been involved in international peace and solidarity initiatives.
Currently, almost all French regions, 73 departments, and 80% of towns with over 5,000 residents have established more than 600 international partnerships across 115 countries. Addressing global challenges, such as climate change and peace, requires the participation of local governments and decentralized cooperation, uniting citizens, diasporas, and local actors both locally and internationally.
The debate also focused on the pivotal role cities and territories play in promoting peace through city diplomacy. The discussion underscored various initiatives, experiences, and actions from the Mayors for Peace network.
Photo: courtesy of Mayors for Peace France