INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
COLLABORATION WITH INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS
Focus on specific projects
Strengthening relationships with major international organisations has been declared a goal of this term and is being implemented. Collaboration focuses on specific projects of mutual interest and targeted actions.
Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are currently under discussion with the World Bank International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). The UIA is also collaborating with the World Trade organisation (WTO) on thematic sessions of the Council for Trade in Services, specifically regarding the recognition of professional qualifications.
Ongoing Collaborative Projects:
With UN-Habitat: Partnership on the UIA 2030 Award, recognising projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With UNESCO: World Capital of Architecture (WCA) programme and further areas of cooperation, including recent discussions about the Creative Cities and World Heritage Canopy programmes
MoU WITH UN TOURISM
Memorandum of Understanding with UN Tourism signed, WCST programme in discussion
A MoU between the UN Tourism and the UIA was signed on 01.09.25. A new initiative titled “World Capital of Sustainable Tourism” is under discussion, aiming to link sustainable tourism and architectural heritage.
URBANISATION CHARTER
Joint project as part of the 2026 World Capital of Architecture Programme
The Urbanisation Charter is being developed in the context of the 2026 UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture programme in collaboration with UNESCO, UN-Habitat, WHO, IFLA, ISOCARP, and the Municipality of Barcelona.
This marks the first time that international organisations and professional bodies work together on a common charter. With this initiative, the UIA seeks to address the quality of urban development for the wellbeing of all citizens and to bring together key professional disciplines and international organisations whose mandates align with this objective.
The Charter will be addressed to professionals, politicians, and citizens, clarifying the role of architecture and urban planning in shaping healthier, more sustainable cities. It aims to translate professional expertise into clear, actionable messages that are accessible to decision-makers and communities, while affirming the societal relevance of the architectural profession. It also seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that the profession effectively communicates its societal relevance and impact.