2025 - The Year of the Unlikely Alliance?

As I reflect on 2024, I am reminded of Harold Wilson's quote: "A week is a long time in politics."

This past year promised to be historic, with a remarkable number of people around the globe heading to the polls. It certainly delivered notable results, and with each election result, we collectively held our breath for the latest steep incline on the democratic roller coaster we've all been on this year. Personally, the roller coaster metaphor aptly sums up 2024 for me.

However, there are reasons to be hopeful for 2025, building upon some of my professional highlights of the year.

The Role Cities Can Play in Shaping the Agenda

Earlier this year, I embarked on an exciting new challenge with C40 Cities. After four years of working in City Hall, I have long held a firm belief in the important role Mayors play. During my time with Sadiq, his leadership implemented visionary policies such as free school meals, freezing transport fares to support affordable transport for Londoners, and creating the world's largest clean air zone (among many others).

And in my new role, over the last two months, I've witnessed Mayors of global cities sharing best practices on bold climate action, developing joint advocacy asks to continue on the road to net zero, and yes, holding each other accountable.

While their city contexts may differ slightly and are often separated by thousands of miles, they are united by a shared goal of taking action to confront the climate crisis and provide global leadership. In November, I witnessed this firsthand while working with C40's fellow Co-Chair, the inspirational Mayor Aki-Sawyerr.

Young People Taking Up Space and Embracing Progressive Ideas

This past autumn, before commencing my new role, I had the opportunity to engage with hundreds of sixth formers about politics and current affairs. Their questions were challenging and imbued with strong views on global conflicts and climate breakdown, alongside insightful ideas on how to address these issues within the UK. I was particularly struck by their profound understanding of global challenges and their ideas on how we can move forward.

The young people I spoke with earlier this autumn were under no illusions about how they could play their part and eagerly embraced the opportunity to participate and make their voices heard.

?A Renewed Fire for Progressive Voices

While the election of a Labour Government in the UK undoubtedly constitutes a personal highlight of the year, it is disheartening to witness the struggles of progressive voices worldwide at the ballot box. The critical question for next year is whether this will serve as the necessary catalyst for a resurgence of progressive movements.

To paraphrase a well-known Martin Luther King Jr. quote: The arc of the universe may bend towards justice, but it requires persistent effort from progressive voices to ensure that it does.

A recurring theme among the reasons for optimism is the potency of unlikely alliances. My fervent hope for 2025 is that it will become the year of the Unlikely Alliance for positive change. Given the formidable challenges we confront globally—climate breakdown, escalating inequality, and rampant poverty—along with the rise of those who seek to sow discord within our communities, it will necessitate the combined skills and experiences of individuals from all walks of life.

I am dedicated to working tirelessly to achieve this objective, both within the area of global climate diplomacy and through the support I provide to younger generations closer to home.

If that resonates with you and you’re interested in being part of this effort, I hope we can connect in 2025.

Happy New Year!