How can urban and local leadership teams navigate the impending international relations revolution? A practitioner viewpoint

Abstract

The practice of cities and regions nurturing external and international relations has been part of their roles and functions literally for millennia. More than ever, in an era of globalisation, international breakdown and dysfunction, local leaders need to look outward, identify their localities' international opportunities and challenges, and put in place measures to address them. This viewpoint is based on a briefing the author produced for LGIU (Local Government Information Unit -a think tank owned by UK local authority members) in November 2016. It outlines the case for UK LAs, with neighbours and partners as appropriate, to recognise the importance of a coherent approach to international affairs through the BREXIT negotiation period and beyond. It suggests a framework for formulating this approach, and draws on some examples of internationalisation that are already established and operating. It also suggests opportunities for local government as a sector to influence Government’s priorities and approach. This may be better promoted across relevant LA associations, with partners (e.g. LEPs, universities, NGOs, etc.) and at UK as well as individual nation level.