The UCLG General Assembly also approved the new Global CharterAgenda for Human Rights in the City, a renewed commitment to place human dignity, equality, participation, and social justice at the centre of urban governance.
Designed as a practical tool, the Charter-Agenda helps cities and territories translate human rights commitments into everyday policies and services. It recognises that, while human rights are universal, they are experienced most directly at the local level through access to housing, schools, healthcare, clean water, public spaces, care systems, digital connectivity, and inclusive services.
In his message to participants, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk emphasised that cities and regions provide the foundations of daily life: homes, classrooms, healthcare, water, infrastructure, and public services. Yet rapid urbanisation, inequalities, housing shortages, climate shocks, and increasing demands on public resources are placing growing pressure on local governments. He recognised the leadership of cities integrating human rights into policies, budgets, and services, while ensuring that women, older persons, persons with disabilities, migrants, refugees, and marginalised communities are included in decision-making.