Singapore launches new initiative to connect mayors from cities amid 'divided and fragmented' world

Singapore is initiating a new global program to connect mayors and facilitate the exchange of ideas, a move Prime Minister Lawrence Wong described as increasingly vital in a world he characterized as "more divided and fragmented." The announcement came on the second day of the World Cities Summit (WCS) in Singapore.

Mr. Wong emphasized that while national governments may face geopolitical disagreements, cities can still find common ground. "Between countries, governments may not always see eye to eye on every geopolitical issue. But cities can still find common ground, exchange practical ideas and learn from one another’s experiences," he stated. The WCS, running from June 14 to 16, convenes city leaders, experts, and academics to tackle urban challenges related to liveability and sustainability.

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Between countries, governments may not always see eye to eye on every geopolitical issue. But cities can still find common ground, exchange practical ideas and learn from one another’s experiences.

City leaders globally are grappling with similar issues, including leveraging technology for economic growth while ensuring inclusivity, fostering social cohesion among diverse populations, and meeting infrastructure demands sustainably. Mr. Wong acknowledged that there are no easy solutions, and cities must navigate their unique constraints. However, he stressed the value of shared learning: "Because these are shared challenges, there is much we can learn from one another’s experiences."

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Because these are shared challenges, there is much we can learn from one another’s experiences.

The new Mayoral Fellowship is part of the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize (LKYWCP) Network, expanding learning opportunities beyond prize-winning cities. It joins existing fellowships focused on research and urban leadership. The inaugural cohort includes mayors from Agra, Bucharest, Kigali, and Tshwane, with former mayors of Helsinki and Paris participating as visiting fellows. "Good ideas can come from anywhere, so we want this to be a platform for mayors to engage candidly with one another, share both their successes and setbacks, and build lasting relationships," Mr. Wong added.

In addition to the fellowship, Singapore also announced the upcoming Liu Thai Ker Distinguished Speaker Series, honoring the legacy of Singapore's first master planner. This series will feature urban leaders discussing community-centric design and sustainable city-building, further underscoring Singapore's commitment to advancing urban solutions through international collaboration and knowledge sharing.

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Good ideas can come from anywhere, so we want this to be a platform for mayors to engage candidly with one another, share both their successes and setbacks, and build lasting relationships.