Title

CORE CITIES

We need to remember that the local is also often the global

For the first time global national leaders explicitly mentioned the role of cities and of city governments in making a difference in climate change, says Marvin Rees.

At a time when the geopolitical situation is at its most unstable for 25 years, G7 leaders met in Hiroshima recently to discuss some of the world's biggest challenges, including food insecurity and Russia's illegal and aggressive invasion of Ukraine.

As is customary, they released a post- summit statement setting out their joint positions on these challenges. These documents can be bland, they have to respect diplomatic niceties and are written by committee, but this year's communique contained something groundbreaking.

For the first time global national leaders explicitly mentioned the role of cities and of city governments in making a difference in climate change. The communique talked about the ‘transformative power of cities' which drive ‘every aspect' of sustainable development.

It came on the back of a decision by G7 climate ministers to meet with city leaders from Urban 7, our group of city networks founded by Core Cities UK, to discuss closer working with cities on climate change. The outcomes of this meeting will be taken to COP28 in Dubai later this year.

This recognition of the importance of local by the world's most powerful presidents and prime ministers is due to the hard work of not just our group but similar groups from across Europe and the world who have been lobbying the G7.

I understand that UK local government leaders sometimes come under fire for international work, I have done so myself during my time as Mayor of Bristol. The first responsibility of local leaders will always be to the places they are proud to represent.

However, in today's era of uncertainty we need to remember that the local is also often the global. The effects of the issues discussed by the G7, like migration and climate, are being felt in cities around the world, including mine. That is why Core Cities UK, along with our other international urban partners, will continue to lobby for urban government to be at the heart of global affairs.

Marvin Rees is Mayor of Bristol and chair of Core Cities UK

@MarvinJRees @corecities

CORE CITIES

After the reshuffle: ensuring the LGA's voice continues to be heard

By Louise Gittins | 23 September 2025

The LGA is engaging with the new ministerial team and with parliament to help shape reforms around devolution and to offer perspectives on behalf of councils...

CORE CITIES

Stronger devo can solve the London problem

By Patrick Diamond | 23 September 2025

Relationships between the capital and Whitehall may have improved but its underpowered mayoralty requires urgent fiscal and planning autonomy, argue Jack Sha...

CORE CITIES

Where will our talent go?

By Pam Parkes | 22 September 2025

Pam Parkes explains how to make reorganisation a reason for talented people to stay and new staff to join the sector on its future journey.

CORE CITIES

'Devolution in name only': Lib Dem Vikki Slade talks local government reform

By Heather Jameson | 19 September 2025

As the Lib Dems head to Bournemouth for their party conference, local government spokesperson Vikki Slade – the former leader of post-reorganisation Bournemo...

Popular articles by Marvin Rees