Former Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo appointed UN-Habitat Goodwill Ambassador for Eastern Europe and Central Asia

Antalya, Türkiye, 10 November 2026 – The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has appointed Ms. Anne Hidalgo, the former Mayor of Paris, as its Goodwill Ambassador for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. 

Drawing on her extensive experience in urban leadership and international city networks, Ms. Hidalgo will support efforts to advance inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban development across the region, with a focus on Ukraine’s urban recovery.

“Cities are at the forefront of some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from climate change and housing insecurity to conflict and displacement. They are also central to delivering solutions. Ms. Anne Hidalgo brings extensive experience in urban leadership and a strong understanding of the role cities play in driving change,” said UN-Habitat’s Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach.

“Together, we will work to build coalitions, mobilize expertise and strengthen partnerships that can contribute to Ukraine’s urban recovery and advance more inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban development across the region,” she added.

The appointment was announced at COP31, the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, taking place in Türkiye.

As Goodwill Ambassador, Ms. Hidalgo will work with UN-Habitat to advance people-centred approaches to rebuilding, prioritizing adequate housing, access to basic services, resilient infrastructure and the role of local governments.

“I am honoured to be appointed UN-Habitat’s Goodwill Ambassador for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and especially for Ukraine. Ukrainian mayors are on the front line, and their courage is extraordinary. My commitment to Ukraine and its people is longstanding,” said Ms. Hidalgo.

“Reconstruction is about restoring homes, essential services, and the confidence that communities can build a secure future. Green reconstruction is not a luxury reserved for peacetime. It is the only rational, cost-effective and sustainable path.

“In parallel with my role as Global Ambassador of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, a global alliance of cities advancing climate action, I will work with UN-Habitat to mobilize support for Ukrainian cities. Drawing on the solidarity between cities that I have experienced throughout my career, we can work together to support recovery and lay the foundations for more inclusive, sustainable and resilient communities.”

Ms. Hidalgo’s appointment is for a two-year term.

The partnership will also support wider regional priorities, including climate action, sustainable urban development and stronger local governance, while encouraging cooperation and the exchange of practical solutions among cities and partners.

Ms. Hidalgo served as Mayor of Paris from 2014 to 2026, during which she championed policies to make the city more sustainable, inclusive and resilient. 

Her leadership focused on climate action, sustainable mobility, expanding green and public spaces, and improving urban liveability. She also played a prominent role in international city networks, including as Chair of C40 Cities, advocating for stronger local leadership and cooperation among cities to address climate change and other global challenges.

Cover photo: Anne Hidalgo gives opening remarks at a press conference for a high-level signing event at the United Nations Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, on 29 May 2025. © UN-Habitat/Peter Ndolo

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