United Cities and Local Governments

UCLG, founded in 2004 following a political unification process of two older associations, represents and defends the interests of local governments on the world stage.

With its headquarters in Barcelona, its mission is to be the united voice and world advocate of democratic local self-government, promoting its values, objectives and interests, through cooperation between local governments, and within the wider international community. It has members in 140 countries in seven world regions. These include over 1000 cities and local governments, and 112 local government associations.

Its work programme focuses on increasing the role and influence of local government in global governance, and supporting democratic, effective, innovative local government close to the citizen. UCLG supports international cooperation between cities and their associations, and works to obtain programmes, networks and partnerships to build the capacity of local governments.