International Planning
In 2022, APA introduced an international strategy that emphasizes learning and knowledge exchange around its top strategic priorities, including topics that build our members' cultural competency. International outreach in this context includes participation in international conferences and events where APA can share our cutting-edge research while also collecting best practices in planning from around the world.
Collaboration with other national and regional planning associations affiliated with the Global Planners Network is key to reaching our goals. Those partnerships help inform APA's engagement with the United Nations and other entities so that APA can participate in efforts to build planning capacity globally.
All of APA's international activity is undertaken with an eye for creating value for APA members, while also contributing to the growth of the profession worldwide.
World Town Planning Day
November 8, 2023 | LEARN GLOBALLY, APPLY LOCALLY
World Town Planning Day is celebrated in 30 countries on four continents each November. It is a special day to recognize and promote the role of planning in creating livable communities. This year's event was co-sponsored by APA, its International Division and the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and included 33 speakers from 16 countries who shared experiences with 820 attendees outlining innovations to promote sustainability, resilience, equity and social justice.
Global Planners Network
Sharing new ideas about communities across the world
GPN is a network of 17+ regional and national planning associations, including APA, that convene to share planning ideas, approaches, and good practices — building the capacities for planning across the globe.
United Nations
A Better Urban Future
APA has been a long-term partner with the United Nations. Maintaining consultative status with its Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) allows APA to advance sustainable development goals with international colleagues.
World Urban Forums happen every other year and are managed by UN Habitat; APA is represented by its President and CEO at these events.
APA Resources
International Division
APA's International Division is active in promoting information, networking, and professional development opportunities related to international planning. In pursuit of these goals, the division provides a limited number of grants for projects and study abroad. Other programs and activities include a newsletter, conference sessions, and professional development and networking events.
Blog Posts
Planning Action for a Just Transformation to a Net-Zero Climate Resilient World
Statement from the Global Planners Network about the need for effective planning to generate sustainable urbanism in advance of the 74th World Town Planning Day on November 8, 2023.