On 9 June 2026, the ICLEI Global Executive Committee (GexCom) convened in Bonn, Germany, bringing together leaders from local and regional governments around the world to discuss ICLEI’s strategic direction and key priorities for the years ahead. It also marked the first in-person meeting for the newly appointed GexCom members, providing an important opportunity to strengthen collaboration in addressing shared global challenges, including climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable urban development.

In addition to welcoming the newly appointed members, participants exchanged views on strengthening ICLEI’s global governance and identified key priorities for future international policy dialogue.

Welcoming New Members to the Global Executive Committee

The meeting welcomed the newly appointed members of the ICLEI Global Executive Committee.

From Japan, Takeharu Yamanaka, Mayor of Yokohama, was appointed to the Board Member of the ICLEI Global Executive Committee (Circular Development Portfolio). In this role, Mayor Yamanaka will lead international discussions on advancing circular development and the circular economy, while strengthening collaboration among local and regional governments worldwide.

Piia Elo, Mayor of Turku, Finland, was elected as the Regional Seat for Europe and ICLEI Vice President. In addition, Ursula Sautter, Deputy Mayor of the Federal City of Bonn, Germany, was appointed as the Global Executive Committee portfolio holder for UN Sustainability Governance. The meeting also introduced new Global Executive Committee members from the Central District of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Los Angeles County, United States, and Álvaro Obregón, Mexico.

Bringing the Voice of Local Governments to the Global Stage

The ICLEI GexCom serves as the organization’s highest decision-making body, comprising mayors and other local and regional government leaders representing ICLEI’s regions around the world. It plays a central role in shaping ICLEI’s strategic direction and advancing international policy advocacy across a wide range of areas, including climate action, biodiversity, circular development, resilience, and sustainable urban development.

The meeting was held alongside the UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn (SB64) and the Daring Cities 2026 Bonn Dialogues, where participants engaged in discussions on the critical role of local and regional governments in advancing global climate action and sustainable development.

ICLEI Japan will continue to share discussions and key outcomes from the GexCom, as well as the latest international developments, with its member local governments. At the same time, we remain committed to showcasing the initiatives and achievements of Japanese local government to the global community.

You can view the photo album capturing highlights from the meeting.