One of the principal tasks entrusted to the Mediterranean Commission of UCLG during the 10th anniversary of the Barcelona Process was the organisation of a permanent Forum of Local and Regional Authorities of the Mediterranean.

The objectives of the Forum are:

• To bring together local and regional authorities of the region so that they can exchange their views on political, economic and social challenges and provide useful contributions for future development and peace prospects in the Mediterranean
• To offer a platform for the expression, construction and relaying of political messages of local and regional authorities
• To consolidate and expand the role of local and regional authorities as development actors in the Mediterranean by enabling the development and enhancement of their experiences and by promoting their initiatives

The Forum, a major event for local and regional authorities from the three shores of the Mediterranean, is their platform for political expression. It is also an event in which they contribute to define and promote policies for local and regional development and governance. Finally, it is a special occasion for local governments to address themselves to national and international bodies voicing their opinions and aspirations.

The Forums of local and regional authorities of the Mediterranean are organised jointly with members of the Mediterranean Commission and, particularly, with the main networks of local governments that are active in the region.