The 3rd UCLG World Forum of Intermediary Cities was successfully held in Cuenca, Ecuador, from January 23 to 24, 2025. The event gathered local and regional leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world to address pressing challenges intermediary cities face and explore innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.
The Forum showcased a dynamic program, including technical visits, climate-focused discussions, and panels on diverse topics such as decentralized cooperation, the role of rurality in sustaining life systems, addressing inequalities through basic services, and participatory democracy as a pathway to social justice.
During the Climate Day session titled “Local and Regional Governments Constituency Taking Off to Belém COP30,” UCLG-MEWA Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman underscored the climate challenges faced by the MEWA region. He also presented key recommendations for local and regional governments as part of the roadmap to COP30. Additionally, Mr. Duman participated in the High-Level Dialogue, where he highlighted the importance of ecological innovation and active community involvement in tackling complex urban challenges in intermediary cities. He shared notable examples and best practices from the MEWA region to support his message.
Upon the invitation of the Secretary General of Latin American Federation of Cities, Municipalities, and Local Governments Associations (FLACMA), which is one of the two legs of UCLG Latin America (LATAM), we were honored to have attended their Executive Bureau meeting. Addressing the attendees, Mr. Duman emphasized the MEWA Region’s interest in fostering closer and stronger relations with Latin American cities, underscoring the importance of interregional collaboration.
The main outcome was the adoption of the Cuenca Declaration, which emphasizes the critical role of intermediary cities in strengthening rural-urban linkages, fostering sustainable development, and advancing the 2030 Agenda. It highlights the need to rebuild trust in institutions, promote democratic values, and leverage community networks to address both local and global challenges. The declaration also outlines strategic priorities, including integrating governance systems, enhancing climate resilience, innovation in basic services, and investing in sustainable economies to drive social justice and inclusive growth within intermediary cities.