Globally Competent Governance

Book excerpt: Globally Competent Governance explores promising policies and practices developed by local governments and other community leaders across the United States and beyond in their efforts to build welcoming and inclusive communities and globally competent governments. Cities of the future, be they large, regional metropolitan centers of commerce and political power, regional hubs that service central metropolitan regions, or smaller suburban or rural centers that cater to agriculture or regional commerce, will continue to evolve. Globalization and global mobility have greatly increased the cultural, ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity in cities and communities around the globe and demand local governments build welcoming and inclusive communities for all residents, particularly newcomers. Leaders, both in and out of government, must be prepared to respond to changing needs and manage any potential challenges this may create. To better understand what local officials are facing and what they are doing to manage change, the author presents data collected through surveys and individual interviews of local officials and other community influencers. Based on these findings, the book analyzes the current state of cities and makes policy recommendations for moving forward. This book will be of interest to advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers, and academics in the fields of public policy, governance, immigration, community engagement, social welfare, and political science, as well as professionals in government and nongovernmental organizations. It will also interest professionals working with immigrants and in immigration policy.