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About us International Steering Committee

International Steering Committee

The International Steering Committee (ISC) provides overall strategic direction for the Strong Cities Network. Comprised of a geographically diverse group of 25 members, the ISC works with the Management Unit to ensure that Network’s forward trajectory is driven by the needs of our member cities.

The ISC convenes twice a year – virtually and in-person – to discuss the Network’s thematic priorities and determine its strategic direction.

Strategic Direction

Supporting the Management Unit in determining the overall strategic direction of the Network, as well as annual thematic priorities for action and delivery.

Sharing Information

Members commit to sharing needs assessments, local strategies, case studies and evaluation reports, among other resources with other Strong Cities members through the digital hub.

Network Ambassadors

Members actively endorse and publicise the benefits of the Strong Cities Network, and their involvement in the network. Members agree to assist in growing the overall membership-base by encouraging other cities or sub-national entities to join, highlighting the Strong Cities vision, mission and impact at regional events and conferences where appropriate, and promoting the Network within existing national, regional and international networks of cities or local governments.

Biannual meeting representation

Attending twice-yearly virtual and in-person meetings.

In-kind contributions

Strong Cities has a dedicated Monitoring & Evaluation function enabling the Management Unit to assess impact against key indicators, adjust methods and engagement accordingly, improve efficacy of the Network, and ensure we are addressing city needs and priorities.

Partnerships & Collaboration

An openness to support Strong Cities through in-kind contributions.

Co-Chairs

Jan van Zanen

Mayor of The Hague
Co-Chair Term: July 2023 – June 2025

Asmaa Rhlalou

Mayor of Rabat
Co-Chair Term: July 2023 – June 2025

Forward Strategy

The Strong Cities Network new three-year forward strategy – endorsed by the International Steering Committee in September 2023 – is a roadmap for expanding Strong Cities’ reach and sustainable impact.

Following an intensive two-year consultation process, which included bilateral and multilingual regional consultations with more than 100 Strong Cities member cities, as well as consultations with donors and international partners, the Strategy identifies a key set of city needs shaped across several geographical contexts amid a changing policy landscape and threat profile.

By cities for cities, the Strong Cities Strategy reflects the needs and priorities of members. A roadmap for our global network and collective mission.

Is your city a Strong City?

Learn more about membership and join the global network of cities committed to building strong, resilient communities