Eurocities

Working in partnership with the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, Leeds City Council is a member of the largest European city network, Eurocities.

The network provides an opportunity to work collaboratively with 190 cities from 39 countries on key urban challenges relating to transport, economic development, health, climate and much more.

Leeds is currently chair of the working group on Children and Young People which brings together cities from across Europe to share ideas and best practice on how to help improve the lives and outcomes of children living in our cities.

Cities for Digital Rights

The Cities Coalition for Digital Rights aims to promote, protect and uphold human rights on the internet at a local and global level.

The network, which is supported by the UN’s Habitat programme, plays an important role as Leeds continues to develop its Smart City ambitions.

Culture Next

The network is made up of current and former candidates to the European Capital of Culture (ECoC) title. The mission of the network is to support cities to implement culture-led urban development programmes and policies, building on the experiences, participatory processes and collaborations established during the preparation for the ECoC bid.

In 2017 Leeds was preparing to bid to become European Capital of Culture for 2023. However, the UK’s decision to leave the European Union meant that this was no longer possible. Despite this setback, Leeds is working with members of the Culture Next network as the city prepares for its international festival of culture, Leeds 2023.

OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth 

Leeds’ ambition is to have a strong economy, within a compassionate city. This is being delivered through the inclusive growth strategy which seeks to ensure that the benefits of prosperity reach all our communities and citizens.

Leeds is not the only city taking this approach. The Champion Mayors Initiative brings together a coalition of global city leaders, including the Mayors of Paris, New York and Tokyo, who have committed to tackling inequalities and promoting more inclusive economic growth in cities.

Intercultural Cities

Home to over 160 different nationalities, Leeds is one of the most diverse cities in the UK. We’re proud of our rich cultural diversity and see multi-culturalism as a key strength. To support the city’s work around diversity, Leeds joined the Intercultural Cities Network which is coordinated by the Council of Europe.

The network supports local authorities worldwide in reviewing their policies through an intercultural lens and encouraging cities to develop comprehensive intercultural strategies to help them manage diversity positively.