Emilia Saiz is the secretary-general of United Cities and Local Governments . A jurist by training, she has dedicated her career to advancing the role of local governments in global development and fostering cooperation among cities and associations worldwide. Since joining UCLG’s founding organization, IULA, in 1997, she has led initiatives on capacity building, decentralized cooperation, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion. Emilia played a key role in establishing the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments and continues to advocate for solidarity, justice, and accountability in local and global governance.