Our Governance
The Coalition Steering Committee is its principal decision-making body and sets the overall strategy for the Coalition. It is composed of city-led Coalition members United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) and the Mayors Migration Council (MMC). The Steering Committee provides day-to-day guidance to the Secretariat and has ultimate decision-making power. It convenes at least once a month or when needed.
The Coalition Advisory Committee provides strategic advice and guidance on the work plan and budget. As a minimum, it meets every quarter at the technical level and once a year at the executive level. It is composed of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).
The Coalition Secretariat ensures day-to-day operational management of the Coalition work plan and budget and ensures streamlined communication and coordination among Coalition partners.
The Coalition works on behalf of the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments, a joint global policy advocacy initiative of the major international networks of local governments, with a specific focus on migration and forced displacement. The Secretariat represents the Coalition within the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments meetings.
In the context of the Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD), the Mayors Mechanism will continue to consist of its historical partners (MMC, UCLG and IOM) and be referred to as such, maintaining consistency with existing terminology and practices within the GFMD framework.
“As the level of government that welcomes migrants and refugees as neighbours, local and regional governments are not merely implementers—they are frontline providers of essential public services and central to shaping cohesive and inclusive communities. This Coalition is a vital platform to promote genuine multi-stakeholder dialogue and partnerships. By placing migrants and refugees at the heart of a renewed social contract, the Coalition helps ensure that access to services, protection, and meaningful participation are upheld as universal rights, not exceptions”
Emilia Saiz, Secretary General UCLG
“Cities are stepping up where others are falling short—delivering housing, healthcare, jobs, and community for migrants and refugees, even as budgets shrink, national barriers rise, and politics turn toxic. This Coalition is about backing that leadership with the visibility, resources, and partnerships mayors need to keep going—and, in doing so, help the world stay on track with its migration and refugee goals. We’re proud to co-lead this effort with like-minded partners and are determined to help rebuild a multilateral system that truly recognises and invests in the leadership of cities.
Vittoria Zanuso, Executive Director MMC
¨From implementing local housing projects to sheltering those displaced and ensuring their access to schools and other critical social services, cities are at the helm of creating open, inclusive and supportive environments for refugees and IDPs.¨
Filippo Grandi, High Commissioner UNHCR
“Local and regional governments are key to addressing the complex challenges of the future. I am proud to announce IOM's new role in the Local Coalition for Migrants and Refugees, where we will act in an advisory capacity. This collaboration will help us work more closely with local and regional governments on practical solutions that will benefit migrants and local communities. Whether it’s meeting workforce needs, strengthening inclusion and social unity, or tackling the impact of climate mobility, local and regional governments are indispensable allies. Together, we can shape a future where migration and migrants make an even greater contribution to resilient and thriving communities.
Amy Pope, Director General IOM