Urban7 (U7) has been recognized as an official G7 Engagement Group under the French G7 Presidency in 2026. The recognition marks a significant step forward in integrating the voices of local governments into global decision-making processes on economic transformation and resilience.

Cities and regions play a central role in implementing international policies related to climate action, social cohesion, resilience, and democratic governance. As an official platform representing these urban and regional perspectives, U7 will now participate in the G7 process.

💬Comment from Togo Uchida, ICLEI Japan Executive Director

“We are very pleased that Urban7 (U7) has been recognized as an official G7 Engagement Group under the  French G7 Presidency.

Since its formal launch in 2021, U7 has steadily built collaborative initiatives with the aim of enabling local governments to engage directly with the G7 agenda. I have personally been deeply involved in the planning of both the 2023 and 2025 U7 Mayors’ Summits. In particular, I find it highly meaningful that the concept of a ‘Culture of Peace’, advocated by Hiroshima City, was incorporated into the 2023 U7 Mayors Declaration submitted to the G7 during Japan’s G7 Presidency, highlighting the role of local governments.

In the current global political climate, the challenges facing the G7 are immense, and overcoming them is by no means easy. However, it is precisely in times like these that local voices are more important than ever in guiding the world toward a sustainable future. Local governments across the G7 countries have important roles to play and many opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the international community.”

U7 Mayor Summit 2026

The 2026 U7 Mayors’ Summit will be held in Nancy, France, from 2–4 June 2026, ahead of the G7 Summit.

The U7 Mayors’ Summit will bring together mayors and local government representatives from the G7 countries and beyond, as well as representatives of domestic and international city networks. In line with the priorities of the French G7 Presidency, participants will engage in discussions to develop shared political messages and policy recommendations.

The summit will serve as an important opportunity to strengthen multilevel governance and international cooperation, ensuring that international strategies and G7 discussions effectively reflect local realities and needs.

More related news and updates are available on the official U7 website.