The Urban7 International Mayors Summit in Nancy marked a defining moment for the role of cities in global governance.
With Urban7 now formally recognized as an official G7 Engagement Group, a long-standing reality has finally gained institutional recognition: cities are not merely implementers of policy, but strategic actors shaping solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
From climate action and resilience to democratic governance and social cohesion, cities are where global issues become tangible – and where innovation, pragmatism, and leadership are most often found.
The adoption of the Nancy Declaration reinforces a simple but powerful principle: decisions about the future cannot be made without the governments closest to people. As global challenges grow increasingly urban, cities must be systematically integrated into international decision-making processes.
Particularly powerful were the contributions of Ukrainian mayors, whose experiences underscored the vital role of local leadership in safeguarding democracy, maintaining resilience, and sustaining international solidarity under the most challenging circumstances.
The summit also demonstrated the growing maturity of urban diplomacy, bringing together city networks and partners from across the globe around a shared agenda for cooperation, impact, and sustainable progress.
Our congratulations and thanks to the Urban7 leadership, France urbaine, Mayor Mathieu Klein and the City of Nancy, and all partners who contributed to this important milestone. A special thank you goes to U7 Co-Director Matthew Bach (ICLEI Europe) and his outstanding team, whose dedication, expertise, and tireless efforts were instrumental in making this historic step forward possible. It is a privilege working, developing and moving boundaries with you, dear Matthew. We would also like to recognize Régis Capo Chichi (France Urbaine), whose exceptional coordination and stewardship were essential to the success of this ambitious undertaking and who has kick-started the whole process 3 years ago together with the U7 secretariat.
Cities do not ask for a seat at the table as stakeholders. They take their place as essential partners in shaping our collective future.