The City of Brampton is proud to announce the appointment of Deputy Mayor Harkirat Singh to the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) World Council and Executive Bureau, marking a significant milestone in Brampton’s expanding global leadership in urban policy and municipal governance.
The appointment, officially endorsed by Brampton City Council and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), reflects the city’s growing influence in international municipal affairs and its commitment to addressing global challenges through local leadership.
UCLG is the world’s largest network of local and regional governments, representing cities, towns, and metropolitan areas across the globe. Its World Council serves as the organization’s principal policy-making body, while the Executive Bureau guides proposals and oversees administration and finance. Comprising 115 members and hosting biannual meetings with more than 200 international participants, the Bureau plays a vital role in shaping global urban dialogue.
Deputy Mayor Singh’s appointment builds on Brampton’s previous participation in high-level global forums, including Urban 20 (U20) summits and ongoing partnerships through networks like Strong Cities Network, Bloomberg Philanthropies, ICLEI Canada, and G-Nets. His leadership has helped advance discussions on equitable trade, tariff impacts, and the development of international economic partnerships.
“This appointment is a proud milestone for Brampton,” said Mayor Patrick Brown. “Deputy Mayor Singh’s leadership at the global level will give Brampton a strong voice in shaping the future of cities worldwide. His role will support our efforts to champion innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth in Brampton and beyond.”
In response to his appointment, Deputy Mayor Singh expressed his commitment to strengthening Brampton’s global relationships: “I am honoured to represent Brampton and Canada on the world stage. This appointment reflects our city’s dedication to local leadership, international collaboration and building strong, resilient communities. I look forward to working with leaders around the world to share Brampton’s story and shape a better future for cities everywhere.”
Regional Councillor Rowena Santos, who serves on the FCM Board, celebrated the news: “Deputy Mayor Singh’s appointment is a testament to Brampton’s leadership on the global stage. It reinforces our city’s role in shaping international municipal policies and fostering innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.”
As Deputy Mayor Singh steps into this international role, Councillor Navjit Kaur Brar has been appointed Chair of Corporate Support Services, with Councillor Rod Power assuming the role of Vice-Chair. These appointments, made under Section 284.8(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, ensure continued effective oversight of the City’s corporate operations, including finance, IT, communications, human resources, and tourism.
“I am honoured to take on this new role and look forward to working closely with my council colleagues and staff to deliver strong, accountable governance for our growing city,” said Councillor Brar.
Councillor Rod Power added, “I look forward to supporting the important work of Corporate Support Services and collaborating with Chair Brar to ensure Brampton continues to deliver efficient and transparent service to our residents.”
Brampton continues to emerge as a forward-thinking, globally connected city—one that leads with innovation and acts locally to solve global challenges.
For more on Brampton’s international initiatives, visit brampton.ca.