At a time when growing inequalities, social fragmentation and global uncertainty continue to challenge communities worldwide, local and regional governments remain at the forefront of protecting dignity, defending rights and ensuring that no one is left behind. Democracy is not only built through institutions, but through everyday action that guarantees inclusion, care and belonging for all.
At the United Cities and Local Governments World Congress and World Summit of Local and Regional Leaders in Tangier, the international municipal movement will come together to reaffirm a collective commitment: building territories where human rights, social inclusion and culture are not abstract principles, but lived realities embedded in local governance.
Across the Congress programme, the sessions dedicated to Human Rights, Social Inclusion and Culture, local and regional governments will showcase how territories are advancing a renewed social contract grounded in equality, participation, accessibility, cultural rights and democratic innovation. From inclusive cities and housing justice to youth participation, refugee inclusion and new democratic practices, the conversations in Tangier will demonstrate that rights are ultimately delivered locally.
Join the conversations
Tuesday 23 June
12:30 – 13:00 | Local4Action Launch: The European Capital of Democracy Initiative
Democracy thrives locally. This launch will showcase innovative approaches that strengthen democratic participation and renew trust between institutions and communities.
14:30 – 16:00 | Local4Action Lab: Decentralization as Democratic Practice
Territorial governance is strongest when decisions are made closer to people. This lab will explore decentralization as a pathway toward stronger democratic institutions and more responsive governance.
16:00 – 17:30 | Local4Action Dialogue: The New Global Charter-Agenda for Human Rights in the City: Strengthening the Human Rights Cities Movement
Local governments are leading the defense of human rights from the territories. This dialogue will explore how cities are shaping a renewed global movement to guarantee rights where people live.
16:30 – 18:00 | Local4Action Lab: Action Planning Workshop: Inclusive Local Services for Refugees and Host Communities
Building inclusive communities means ensuring that public services respond to everyone, particularly the most vulnerable. This workshop focuses on turning inclusion into concrete local action.
Wednesday 24 June
09:30 – 11:00 | Tangier-Morocco Track: Innovation in Urban Engineering is Central to Reducing Social Disparities
Reducing inequalities requires innovation grounded in territorial realities. This session will showcase how urban transformation can become a tool for social justice and more equitable communities.
11:00 – 12:00 | Local4Action Dialogue: Housing Futures: Foresight for Cities Delivering Homes for All
Housing is at the heart of dignity and inclusion. This dialogue will explore how cities are reimagining housing policies to ensure access, affordability and the right to adequate housing for all.
11:30 – 13:00 | Tangier-Morocco Track: What Challenges and Opportunities Exist for the Elected Diaspora?
Diaspora communities play a critical role in shaping more connected and inclusive societies. This conversation will examine how territories can strengthen participation across borders and communities.
12:30 – 13:30 | Local4Action Dialogue: The Shared City: Caring for Stray Dogs and Cats as Fellow Urban Citizens
Care is a political principle that extends to how we design coexistence in our communities. This dialogue explores compassionate urban governance and new approaches to shared living in cities.
Thursday 25 June
10:00 – 11:30 | Local4Action Dialogue: Youth Engagement in Urban Governance
The future of democracy depends on intergenerational responsibility. This dialogue will explore how local governments can create spaces where young people actively shape the future of their communities.
10:00 – 11:30 | Multilateral Coalitions: Third Meeting of the Cultural Commission of UCLG Africa
Culture remains a pillar of identity, belonging and democratic life. This meeting will reinforce the role of culture in building resilient and connected communities across territories.
In Tangier, local and regional governments will reaffirm that human rights are lived locally, inclusion begins in our communities and culture remains a fundamental pillar of democratic life.
For further information
- Check the thematic agendas
- Don’t miss the overall program