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Local Politics Go Global: Brookings Focus Book Delves into International Impacts of Local Governance

Blake Bell

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Published in Inside Out India And China: Local Politics Go Global (Brookings Focus Book)

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Cover Of The Brookings Focus Book 'Local Politics Go Global: How Cities Are Shaping The International System' Inside Out India And China: Local Politics Go Global (Brookings Focus Book)

Abstract:

The book "Local Politics Go Global: How Cities are Shaping the International System" explores the increasing role of local governments in global affairs. It argues that cities are becoming increasingly important actors in international relations, and that their actions can have a significant impact on global issues such as climate change, migration, and economic development.

Inside Out India and China: Local Politics Go Global (Brookings Focus Book)

by William Antholis

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2972 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	235 pages

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In an increasingly interconnected world, local governments are playing an increasingly important role in global affairs. Cities are becoming major centers of economic activity, innovation, and cultural exchange. They are also at the forefront of many of the world's most pressing challenges, such as climate change, migration, and economic inequality.

As a result, local governments are increasingly engaging with international organizations, national governments, and other cities around the world. This engagement is often referred to as "global city diplomacy."

The Rise of Global City Diplomacy:

There are a number of factors that have contributed to the rise of global city diplomacy. First, the globalization of the economy has led to a greater interconnectedness between cities around the world. This has made it easier for cities to cooperate on common challenges and to share best practices.

Second, the rise of social media and other communication technologies has made it easier for cities to connect with each other and to build relationships with people around the world. This has helped to create a sense of global community and has made it possible for cities to learn from each other and to work together to solve common problems.

Third, the increasing urbanization of the world's population has led to a greater concentration of people and resources in cities. This has made cities more important actors in global affairs and has given them a greater voice in international decision-making.

The Impacts of Local Politics on Global Affairs:

The actions of local governments can have a significant impact on global issues. For example, cities that adopt policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can help to mitigate climate change. Cities that provide sanctuary to refugees can help to protect human rights. And cities that promote economic development can help to reduce poverty and inequality.

In addition to their direct impacts on global issues, local governments can also play an indirect role by influencing the policies of national governments and international organizations. For example, cities that are successful in reducing crime can provide a model for national governments to follow. And cities that are successful in promoting economic development can attract investment and create jobs, which can benefit the entire global economy.

The Challenges of Global City Diplomacy:

While global city diplomacy has the potential to make a positive impact on the world, there are also a number of challenges that cities face. One challenge is that cities often have limited resources and capacity. This can make it difficult for them to engage in global affairs in a meaningful way.

Another challenge is that cities are often not well-represented in international organizations. This can make it difficult for them to have a voice in global decision-making.

Finally, cities often face resistance from national governments and other actors who are reluctant to share power. This can make it difficult for cities to implement their own policies and to cooperate with other cities on global issues.

The Future of Global City Diplomacy:

Despite the challenges, the future of global city diplomacy is bright. Cities are becoming increasingly important actors in global affairs, and their voices are being heard more and more. As cities continue to grow and become more interconnected, they will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the world.

In order to realize the full potential of global city diplomacy, it is important to address the challenges that cities face. This includes providing cities with more resources and capacity, ensuring that they are well-represented in international organizations, and reducing the resistance that they face from other actors.

By overcoming these challenges, we can create a more just and sustainable world where cities are able to play a leading role in solving the world's most pressing challenges.

Additional Resources:

1. The Brookings Institution: https://www.brookings.edu/ 2. The Global Parliament of Mayors: https://www.globalparliamentofmayors.org/ 3. The United Nations Office for Local Government and Decentralization: https://unhabitat.org/urban-themes/local-governance/ 4. The World Bank Group: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/urbandevelopment

Inside Out India and China: Local Politics Go Global (Brookings Focus Book)

by William Antholis

5 out of 5