Global Compact Strengthens Urban Sustainability Efforts through Agreement with RMIT University

(New York, 22 July 2014) – Recognizing the importance of cities and their potential to create sustainable societies, the UN Global Compact announced plans to strengthen the reach and work of its Global Compact Cities Programme through a renewed commitment by RMIT University and an increased investment in the programme over the next five years.

Established in 2003, the Cities Programme is the urban component of the Global Compact dedicated to the promotion and adoption of the initiative’s ten principles by cities. The new agreement with RMIT – host of the Cities Programme secretariat in Melbourne, Australia – includes additional financial and human resources by the university, aimed at scaling up efforts to tackle urban challenges around the world. 

City participation in the Global Compact has grown to include 86 signatories, ranging from large capital cities to provincial municipalities around the world. By adding a range of urban specialists to the Cities Programme staff and facilitating greater collaboration with Global Compact Local Networks, the programme will provide city participants with stronger local relationships, as well as global connectedness and better recognition. 

“The Global Compact believes that cities have the potential to make enormous strides in creating sustainable societies, and is grateful that RMIT University has committed to drive our Cities Programme forward,” said Global Compact Executive Director Georg Kell. “We have seen how cities and states can overcome complex challenges by taking an approach that considers a broad range of sustainability principles covering human rights, labour standards, environment and anti-corruption, and then working with business and civil society to find lasting solutions.”

"We are delighted to confirm our strengthened commitment to hosting the international secretariat of the Cities Programme, “ said Professor Callum Drummond, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation and Vice-President of RMIT University.  “Building partnerships between city governments, civil society and the business community is very important to RMIT, as a global university and as a corporate citizen.  We are committed to enabling positive, timely impact for society and for the environment."

To lead the next phase of growth for the programme, Professor Ralph Horne has been appointed Director of the Global Compact Cities Programme. Professor Horne’s appointment follows current Director Professor Paul James’ departure from RMIT earlier in the year. A six-month transition process is underway in order to best support Cities Programme activities and partnerships.

“We are grateful for the dedication of Professor Paul James in his seven years as Director, and are proud of his legacy, building the Cities Programme from its pilot phase into a global initiative,” said Mr. Kell. “We welcome Professor Horne’s new Directorship, and are confident that his expertise and leadership can move the Cities Programme into its next phase of impact and growth.”

More information: www.citiesprogramme.org

Contacts 

Elizabeth Ryan
Deputy Director
Global Compact Cities Programme
elizabethryan@citiesprogramme.org

Walid Nagi
Head, Local Networks
UN Global Compact
nagi@un.org