Local Government Diplomacy

On May 13, 2025, the Second Conference on International Cooperation of Local Governments was held in Łódz, under the theme “Subnational Diplomacy: a New Perspective.”

The event brought together numerous experts, representatives of government and local government administration and organizations of cities and regions, who jointly discussed the role of local governments in shaping foreign policy and international cooperation.

The aim of the conference was to emphasize the dynamically growing importance of local government diplomacy – both in promoting regions and building lasting cross-border relations.

The conference was enriched by practical workshops organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the implementation of statutory provisions on international cooperation and countering disinformation. Examples of good practices in international activity of local government units were also presented.

The conference confirmed that local governments are playing an increasingly important role in the international arena, actively participating in shaping relations between countries and regions. The meeting in Łódź was an important step towards strengthening subnational diplomacy and building modern, resilient structures for international cooperation.

The event was organized by the City Hall of Łódź in cooperation with, among others, the European Academy of Diplomacy and the Marshal’s Office of the Lodz Voivodeship.