In the framework of the World Forum on Urban Violence and Education for Coexistence and Peace, UNESCO, in collaboration with the City of Madrid and the City of Montevideo, is organizing a panel of the International Coalition of Inclusive and Sustainable Cities − ICCAR. It will discuss how racism and xenophobia foster urban violence, and how city-level action can be effective in addressing these challenges to promote citizen’s participation and inclusion.

With invited speakers from ICCAR member cities, the panel discussion will have the following objectives:
• To emphasize the role of local authorities for the effective implementation of policies granting equal opportunities and treatment and upholding the quality and accessibility of public spaces and services.
• To share experiences of city-level initiatives from the ICCAR networks, highlighting the centrality of inclusion and freedom from all forms of discrimination, and showcasing the Coalition as a key platform for collaborative action in the implementation of the New Urban Agenda.

A meeting of the ICCAR Global Steering Committee will precede this panel. It will discuss ICCAR's progress since its first meeting held in April 2016 in Bologna, Italy.