Inspiration & Open Collaboration
Global City Forums operates with institutional inspiration from global economic dialogue models while maintaining complete independence and neutrality.
Our Institutional Inspiration
Global City Forums is inspired by global economic dialogue and multi-stakeholder coordination models, including those advanced by major international institutions such as the World Economic Forum, OECD, and World Bank.
However, Global City Forums is an independent initiative focused exclusively on city-level execution, university-led research, and applied economic development. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or formally connected to any global economic forum, government entity, or international organization.
We are a distinct institutional entity operated by the International Doctoral Council, with our own governance, mission, membership structure, and research standards.
Our Institutional Reference Points
We draw institutional and methodological inspiration from leading organizations that demonstrate excellence in multi-stakeholder coordination and evidence-based policy development:
Global Economic Dialogue
Organizations that convene leaders and stakeholders across sectors to address complex economic challenges—emphasizing neutrality, rigor, and long-term commitment to systemic change.
Examples: WEF, OECD, World Bank
Applied Research & Policy
Institutions that produce rigorous, peer-reviewed research with clear policy implications and commitment to evidence-based decision-making.
Examples: Think tanks, academic institutions, research councils
Urban & City-Level Focus
Organizations that recognize cities as drivers of innovation, growth, and sustainable development—working to strengthen city-level governance and capacity.
Examples: C40 Cities, Urban Land Institute, UN-Habitat
University Partnership
Models that position universities as critical partners in addressing real-world challenges—valuing academic independence alongside practical impact.
Examples: University consortia, research partnerships
Openness to Collaboration
Global City Forums welcomes formal partnerships and collaborations with aligned organizations—at any scale—provided they advance our mission and maintain our institutional independence:
Research Collaboration
Joint research projects with universities, think tanks, and research institutions that strengthen our evidence base and amplify impact.
Media & Thought Leadership
Publishing partnerships, media collaboration, and speaking opportunities that amplify our research and insights to global audiences.
Organizational Partnerships
Formal collaboration agreements with international organizations, NGOs, and business associations that complement our work—always disclosed and clearly delineated.
City Network Expansion
Partnership with universities, city governments, and local stakeholders to establish and strengthen Global City Forumss in new geographic regions.
Our Collaboration Principles
✓Independence
All collaborations respect our institutional autonomy and do not compromise research integrity or governance independence.
✓Transparency
All partnerships and collaborations are publicly disclosed and clearly explained—no hidden arrangements or undisclosed agreements.
✓University Autonomy
Collaborations never compromise the self-governance or academic independence of hosting universities and local forums.
✓Alignment with Mission
Partners share commitment to rigorous research, city-level development, and multi-stakeholder engagement for sustainable impact.