Mykhaylo Komarnytskyy
Ph.D. (Political Science), Associate Professor
Department of International Relations and Diplomacy,
Ivan Franko National University of Lviv
Director
Center for American Studies, Ivan Franko National
University of Lviv
Ukraine
Russian invasion of Ukraine has emerged as a significant driver of global change, delineating a clear divide between the civilized and uncivilized realms represented by Ukraine and Russia, respectively. In the realm of international relations, the civilized world adheres to a rules-based order, while the uncivilized world operates within a polycentric framework based on a balance of power. This confrontation spans various dimensions, encompassing traditional battlegrounds as well as battles in the media and communication channels. Amidst these developments, city mayors and heads of regional state administrations have assumed a crucial role, not only in regulating and supporting local entities but also in the international arena of municipal centers. Their responsibilities have expanded beyond domestic governance to address the global implications of the ongoing conflict. Several cities abroad and influential international networks of cities have actively engaged with the issue of the war against Ukraine. Consequently, the concept of "city diplomacy" has gained renewed significance in the current geopolitical landscape.
Following the incursion of Russian troops into Ukraine, numerous cities across Europe, the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and Latin America have strongly condemned what they perceive as intolerable aggression. These cities have unambiguously embraced stances in favor of peace and opposition to the war, actively endorsing sanctions and advocating for the expulsion of Russia from multilateral forums, orchestrated large-scale demonstrations where thousands of citizens congregated in front of major city halls. Additionally, these cities have rallied behind political declarations, which call upon European states and institutions to escalate their endeavors in bringing an end to the ongoing war.
The international activity of individual Ukrainian cities and their mayors as public figures and diplomats has also increased tremendously. The growth of local activity of Ukrainian cities occurred as a reaction to the need to defend their own statehood and even the question of the survival of the local center, which was sought through increased diplomatic pressure and cooperation with the closest partners.
Presently, Ukraine and its regional centers receive support from more than 30 countries and 120 cities, with Poland and Germany actively leading the efforts. European Union cities have joined in, enlisting their counterparts to contribute to this cause. Notably, western Ukrainian cities receive the largest share of aid, attributed to logistical and security considerations. The personal connections and the initiative of mayors are pivotal factors, surpassing the significance of formal twinning agreements. Several cities have expressed their willingness to offer shelter to refugees, both independently and through the Solidarity Cities movement. In a display of unity, cities from New York to Sydney illuminated prominent structures in yellow and blue, synchronized bell ringing with Ukrainian cities, and undertake other symbolic gestures.
EU cities exhibit diverse involvements, including calls for an end to the war, humanitarian aid, and refugee assistance. Within the last two years prominent networks such as United Cities and Local Governments, Mayors for Peace, The European Committee of the Regions, Eurocities, and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions have collectively condemned actions in Ukraine. In an open letter endorsed by 102 EU cities and city networks, including Los Angeles and Taipei, cities advocated for discontinuing all trade with Russia and addressing the energy crisis collaboratively. The #CitiesWithUkraine movement, initiated by the Committee of the Regions, drew participation from more than 170 cities. Demonstrations of solidarity unfolded in more than 50 cities worldwide.
While cities must respect the boundaries of national diplomacy and foreign policy, they possess the agility to advance international causes more swiftly than the federal government by capitalizing on their international connections, pragmatism, and expertise. This capacity makes city diplomacy a valuable and supportive force in times of aggressive international conflict. In the current scenario, exemplified by the situation in Ukraine, city diplomacy is particularly relevant.
Beyond merely condemning the attack and advocating for a peaceful resolution, metropolises are collaborating to support their counterparts in Ukraine. They are mobilizing resources, rallying solidarity from their communities, notably the diaspora, and providing refuge to those fleeing the conflict. However, the true test for cities, and thus city diplomacy, lies in the reconstruction phase for Ukraine. Cities like London, Madrid, Berlin, or Warsaw will need to leverage their urban intelligence to address the extensive challenges and ensure comprehensive human security. Failure to do so, as witnessed in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, may lead to the prevalence of violence and the emergence of a new failed state.
Recognizing this critical role, the international community must actively involve cities and engaged actors in discussions aimed at shaping the reconstruction roadmap. It is imperative to strengthen the connection between city diplomacy and national foreign policies, enhancing cities' capacity to participate effectively in the international relations system. This involves fortifying the bonds that unite cities, empowering them to devise solutions by leveraging the knowledge, innovation, and intelligence of their leading actors. Such comprehensive approach unlocks the full potential of cities on the global stage, aligning them with principles of democracy, peace, and the aspirations of their citizens.