Global agendas, such as those set by international organizations like the United Nations, provide a framework and vision for addressing major global challenges such as climate change, poverty, inequality, and more. These agendas serve as a guide to unite countries, organizations, and individuals toward common goals. However, the success of these global agendas greatly depends on their effective implementation at the local level, particularly within cities and communities. 

In this session, three key agendas for city-led research and innovation will be discussed by our expert group of panelists. To start, we have the Global Research and Action Agenda on Cities and Climate Change Science (GRAA). Also, emerging from the Innovate4Cities Conference 2021, we have the City Research and Innovation Agenda (CRIA). Both of these agendas shed light on existing aims and motivations, pinpoint research gaps and priorities, and provide a regional examination of research and innovation requirements to expedite climate change action in urban areas. These agendas draw from the latest insights in the realm of cities and climate change science. Last, panelists will discuss the ICLEI Global Research Strategy which is designed to catalyze and direct collaborative research initiatives that empower subnational governments to hasten sustainable development, all while being underpinned by robust research. This strategy is aligned with the ICLEI Montréal Commitment and Strategic Vision and places special emphasis on the Five ICLEI Pathways. Operating through diverse mechanisms, the ICLEI Global Research Strategy aims to leverage the momentum generated across various governmental levels, academia, the private sector, and civil society. This collaborative effort is geared towards generating research-derived knowledge that can be applied broadly and contribute to a more sustainable future.

This event will be held in English.

Participants:

• Facilitator: Benjamin Jance IV, Head of Research and Innovation, Global Covenant of Mayors (GCoM) 
• Panelist 1: Giulia Melica, Scientific Officer, Joint Research Centre, European Commission
• Panelist 2: Lea Ranalder, Associate Programme Management Officer, UN-Habitat
• Panelist 3: Pablo Sebastian Mariani, Policy Officer, UCLG World Secretariat
• Panelist 4: Laura Parry, Senior Manager Partnerships and Fundraising, CDP
• Panelist 5: Amy Jones, Officer, Urban Research, Innovation, and Development, ICLEI World Secretariat

Register