UCLG-MEWA Executive Bureau 2026 was held in Niğde, Türkiye, bringing together local and regional leaders, international organizations, UN experts, and academics. Over the course of three days, key regional priorities—including urban innovation, climate adaptation, water stress, entrepreneurship, and inclusive governance—were extensively discussed. With more than 150 participants from over eight countries, the meeting served as a significant platform for dialogue, cooperation, and knowledge exchange across the MEWA region.
The meeting began with an official opening session that brought together key local and regional leaders to address shared challenges and priorities across the MEWA region. The opening session also featured remarks by Secretary General of the Arab Towns Organization Badr Al-Ajeel Al-Askar; President of the Union of Turkish Municipalities of Cyprus and UCLG-MEWA Co-President Mahmut Özçınar; Deputy Mayor of Al Khalil (Hebron) Dr. Asma Sharabati, delivering a message on behalf of Mayor of Al Khalil (Hebron) and President of UCLG-MEWA Tayseer Abu Sneineh; Mayor of Konya and UCLG Executive President Uğur İbrahim Altay; and Governor of Niğde, Nedim Akmeşe. The opening remarks highlighted the importance of cooperation, resilience, and innovation in local governance, particularly amid ongoing regional conflicts and environmental pressures.
UCLG-MEWA Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman. Addressing ongoing conflicts in the MEWA region, Dr. Duman stated, “Local and regional governments play a critical role in fostering resilience through dialogue and cooperation.” He also emphasized innovation in local governance and water scarcity as central themes shaping the discussions.
The opening session continued with remarks by Emrah Özdemir, Mayor of Niğde. Highlighting inclusive and social municipalism, he noted, “Strengthening participatory approaches and expanding innovative practices are essential for the future of our cities,” while sharing concrete best practices from Niğde.
High-level dialogues and panel sessions underscored the evolving role of local governments as transformative actors in sustainable development. Discussions on urban innovation focused on leadership-driven approaches, post-disaster recovery, and balancing cultural heritage with contemporary urban needs. Sessions on water stress addressed climate adaptation policies, renewable energy investments, and sustainable water management, emphasizing efficient resource use and community-based solutions.
UN experts provided key insights into the multidimensional challenges of urban development. Dr. Kyle Farrell of UN-Habitat stated, “Job creation, tackling youth unemployment, and aligning skills with local needs are essential for sustainable urban development.” Dr. Sukaina Al-Nasrawi of UNESCWA highlighted that “Urban data systems and Voluntary Local Reviews are key tools for strengthening implementation capacities.” Dr. Zeina Nazer, Co-Founder of Cities Forum, emphasized that innovation-driven approaches are crucial for building more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.
On the second day, panel discussions focused on smart cities, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship. Participants highlighted the importance of integrating technological innovation with social and environmental dimensions, while also underlining the role of local governments in fostering innovation ecosystems and inclusive growth. The day also included technical visits in Niğde, allowing participants to observe practical implementations in different fields such as conservation of cultural heritage and engaging directly with local stakeholders.
The third day featured a dedicated workshop on strengthening the project development and implementation capacities of local governments. EU-funded programs, financing opportunities, and international cooperation mechanisms were discussed, providing practical tools for more effective project management.
Throughout the meeting, panels, workshops, and field visits enabled extensive knowledge exchange and collaboration. The UCLG-MEWA Executive Bureau 2026 concluded by reaffirming the vital role of local governments in addressing regional and global challenges, underscoring that stronger cooperation, solidarity, and knowledge-sharing are essential to building more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities.
You can access the event photos here.
