Foundation Attends the Strong Cities Network Conference in Manchester, UK
The Strong Cities Network convened its latest conference in Manchester on February 26-27, 2025, bringing together mayors, policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders from across Europe and North America. The event, themed "Community Safety and Well-Being Amidst Consecutive Global Crises," examined the role of cities in addressing hate, violent extremism, and the social polarization exacerbated by global instability. The Foundation for a Path Forward was an active participant in the discussions, contributing to dialogues on building resilient communities and countering online and offline hate.
The conference opened with a series of plenary sessions that set the stage for understanding contemporary threats facing cities, including rising hate crimes, digital extremism, and challenges stemming from migration and climate change. Local leaders from northern UK cities, smaller municipalities, and rural areas shared insights into their specific security concerns, underscoring the importance of local governance in mitigating tensions and fostering inclusion. The event also provided a unique platform for exploring global collaborations, particularly in supporting the rehabilitation of Ukrainian cities through strategic and technical assistance. Mayors and experts discussed trauma-informed approaches to help communities recover from conflict, emphasizing the role of local leadership in long-term stability.
Throughout the two-day conference, keynote speakers from cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, and others highlighted best practices in community safety and resilience. Panel discussions and breakout sessions delved into strategies for combating Islamophobia, antisemitism, and other forms of hate, with an emphasis on building trust between local governments and vulnerable communities. A notable session explored how cities can leverage urban planning and design to prevent extremism, making public spaces more inclusive and fostering connections that deter radicalization.
Digital resilience was another key theme, with discussions on how misinformation and online hate speech translate into real-world violence. Experts examined strategies for equipping communities with tools to counter harmful narratives, including digital literacy programs and early-warning mechanisms that help identify and respond to emerging threats. Representatives from municipalities and civil society organizations shared case studies on successful interventions that prevent digital hate from escalating into physical harm.
Women’s leadership in local governance was also a focal point, with a dedicated session under the Strong Cities Women’s Leadership Caucus. Female officials and community leaders discussed the barriers they face in decision-making roles and the need for systemic change to ensure greater representation and influence in policy development. From Sri Lanka to the Maldives, women leaders shared examples of how they have successfully implemented gender-inclusive policies and addressed structural inequalities in governance.
Youth engagement emerged as another critical issue, with city officials recognizing the role young people play in strengthening social cohesion. The discussions underscored the need for investment in youth mentorship programs, civic education, and employment initiatives to deter radicalization and foster community leadership among younger generations. Participants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh shared innovative approaches, such as youth councils and interfaith sports programs, that have successfully bridged divides and promoted inclusivity.
The second day of the conference featured a series of table-top exercises designed to equip city leaders with crisis response strategies. Scenarios focused on building public trust in prevention efforts and crafting effective communication strategies during moments of heightened tension. Attendees also examined Greater Manchester’s new Hate Crime Plan, which serves as a model for cities seeking to improve reporting mechanisms and community-led responses to hate incidents.
The conference concluded with a site visit to the Manchester Peace Trail, reinforcing the importance of historical reflection and grassroots peacebuilding in the fight against hate. The discussions over the two days underscored the critical role cities play in preventing extremism, supporting marginalized communities, and fostering long-term resilience in the face of evolving global challenges. As Strong Cities celebrates its 10-year anniversary, this gathering in Manchester reaffirmed the commitment of local leaders and community organizations, including the Foundation for a Path Forward, to continue strengthening social cohesion and advancing innovative approaches to public safety worldwide.