Cities as Global Actors – Cities as Drivers of Climate Action

Cities around the world are increasingly taking responsibility for global challenges. In December 2025, the “Cities as Global Actors” conference will bring together representatives from Berlin’s 19 partner cities – from Paris to Jakarta to Buenos Aires – to bring the concept of urban diplomacy to life.

The public conference day on December 2, 2025, will be held under the motto:

“Cities as Climate Actors: Responsibility, Innovation, Action.” The focus will be on how cities around the world are addressing the climate crisis – through responsibility, innovation, and concrete measures. The aim is to deepen dialogue, initiate new collaborations, and strengthen the role of cities as driving forces in global climate policy.

Input from science and practice will form the framework for the discussion:

Prof. Dr. Johan Rockström will present the concept of Planetary Boundaries, which underscores the urgency of urban climate protection measures. Prof. Carlos Moreno will present practical approaches for the sustainable transformation of urban spaces with his 15-minute city concept.

The Market of Opportunities offers space for exchange, inspiration, and concrete collaborations. Initiatives and organizations from the fields of sustainability and international cooperation will present their work. In an open atmosphere, guests can engage in conversation with experts, learn about practical examples, and gain new inspiration for their own work.

Be there— and join the dialogue with:

Speaker:

“Cities as Global Actors” Program Schedule

• 4:00pm-5:30pm – Marketplace of Opportunities
  
  Exchange, inspiration, and new pathways for concrete cooperation in the fields of international collaboration and sustainability.
• 5:30pm-7:00pm – Keynote and Panel
  
  Two keynote speeches from academia and practice by Prof. Dr. Johann Rockström and Prof. Carlos Moreno, followed by a panel discussion featuring Cathryn Clüver Ashbrook, Prof. Rockström, Prof. Carlos Moreno and Barbaros Büyüksagnak.
• 7:00pm-8:00pm – Reception
  
  Keep the conversation going: Further opportunities for networking and exchange will be offered at the subsequent reception at the Rotes Rathaus (Berlin City Hall).

The Marketplace of Opportunities and the Participating Organizations: