Cities are living organisms — shaped not only by their physical form but by the aspirations, cultures, and resilience of the people who inhabit them. At the International Urban Planning Forum (IUPF), we view cities through this human-centric lens. We believe that urban growth must be inclusive, sustainable, and above all, people-centered. Our global experience has taught us that cities thrive when development is guided by the voices and needs of their communities.
Bridging Vision and Implementation
Bridging the gap between vision and reality is one of the greatest challenges in urban development. Urban planners and designers craft bold ideas for better cities, but too often those visions never fully materialise on the ground. In practice, different stakeholders — from government agencies to developers — pick and choose parts of a plan in their own silos. This fragmented approach can dilute the original vision, leading to outcomes that fall short of their potential.
At IUPF, we are determined to break down these silos and ensure planning and implementation stay connected. Our forum unites professionals across disciplines around a shared vision. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, we ensure everyone involved in city-building is aligned from the start. This ensures visionary plans turn into coordinated on-the-ground action.
Diverse Voices, Shared Vision
Meaningful urban change emerges when diverse professional voices come together around a shared vision. IUPF was founded on the belief that no single profession or stakeholder can build a sustainable city alone. True progress happens when we pool our expertise, learn from each other, and co-create solutions.
Our leadership and members have been at the forefront of global urban initiatives — from advising United Nations programs to leading grassroots community projects. These experiences reinforce our commitment to elevating a multitude of perspectives. In our discussions and projects, every voice counts, whether it’s an experienced city planner or a young activist. By connecting local knowledge with international best practices, our forum becomes a global learning platform that benefits everyone.
Our Priorities
IUPF focuses on key priorities that define our approach:
Global Knowledge Exchange: We foster knowledge exchange connecting professionals across regions and disciplines, so innovative ideas and proven solutions can be shared and adapted worldwide.
Empowering Future Leaders: We empower emerging urban leaders through mentorship and capacity-building programmes. By investing in the next generation of planners and advocates, we ensure continuity of visionary thinking and fresh approaches.
Sustainability and Heritage: We champion sustainability and cultural heritage as core principles in urban policy and design. We promote development that meets present needs without compromising future generations, while respecting the history and identity of communities.
Partnerships for Global Goals: We strengthen partnerships with global organisations to accelerate progress on the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals. By aligning with these frameworks, we help translate commitments into local action.
Catalyst for Action
IUPF is more than a professional forum — it is a catalyst for turning ideas into action. We strive to bridge local realities with global strategies, ensuring big ideas are grounded in community needs and informed by global perspectives. We shape urbanisation as a force for equity, prosperity, and environmental stewardship.
Our community is united by a commitment to make cities better for everyone. With the combined experience, networks, and passion of our members, we stand ready to serve, listen, and lead alongside partners around the world. This is the way we think at IUPF: by working together across professions and borders, we can design the cities of tomorrow with the needs of all people at heart.