The 8th World Congress of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) concluded on June 26, 2026, in Daejeon, South Korea. The event, held from June 23 to 26, brought together mayors, local government leaders, and experts from around the world to discuss urban challenges and sustainable development.
Key outcomes included the adoption of the Daejeon Declaration, which reaffirms the commitment of local and regional governments to the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda. The congress also elected a new UCLG presidency for the 2026-2029 term.
Discussions centered on climate action, digital transformation, and inclusive governance. Participants shared best practices on participatory budgeting, smart city initiatives, and resilience building. The congress highlighted the role of cities in achieving global climate targets and fostering social cohesion.
The event featured plenary sessions, workshops, and cultural exchanges. The next UCLG World Congress is scheduled for 2029 in a location to be determined.
