IOS Dialogue #3 - What can a city do? Municipalities in times of global turmoil

The upcoming municipal elections in the Netherlands offer a timely opportunity to reflect on the growing significance of cities and municipalities in addressing global challenges that now shape everyday local realities. Climate change, migration, and geopolitical tensions increasingly influence local governance, service provision, social cohesion, and democratic trust.

In this third IOS dialogue, Institutions for Open Societies collaborates with IOS Platforms Fair Transitions and Open Cities, and the Focus Area Migration and Societal Change, to explore how local governments can act as democratic, responsive, and resilient actors amid global uncertainty. Bringing together researchers, students, and societal partners, the session invites reflection and debate across multiple scales—from international norms and human rights principles to grounded experiences in cities across the world.

Key questions include: 

• How can municipalities balance climate adaptation with social justice and fair transitions?
• What role can local governments play in migration governance, reception, and inclusion?
• How do geopolitical tensions and security pressures manifest at the local level?
• How can local institutions sustain democratic legitimacy and social cohesion under pressure?

If you are interested in learning more about the political parties' positions on urgent issues and local plans, you are also cordially invited to participate in the Municipal Council Election Event LEG Faculty (in Dutch) in the evening. This is a separate event and requires separate registration. For more information, please visit their event page.