URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4927

Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Policy Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: 12.1 The Executive Director City Futures submitted a report containing the Annual Report in respect of the Council’s International Activity during the 2025-26 Municipal Year. On 15 October 2025 the Strategy & Resources Policy Committee approved the Sheffield International Strategy 2025-28 and this report outlines some of the main activities that have taken place towards delivering key themes within the International Strategy.   2025 marked the 75th Anniversary of Sheffield Twinning with the German city of Bochum – the report outlines activities that took place during 2025 to mark this significant milestone. The Appendix attached to this Report provides a detailed overview of international engagement.      12.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That Strategy and Resources Policy Committee:-       (a) note the contents of the International Update 2025-26 included at Appendix A attached to the report;   (b) notes the activities that have taken place during 2025 to mark the 75th Anniversary of Sheffield Twinning with the German city of Bochum; and   (c) notes the progress made towards delivering some of the key themes contained within the International Strategy 2025-28.     12.3 Reasons for Decision     12.3.1 The Report presents the Council’s third annual International Update, and provides a transparent overview of Sheffield’s activities within the international arena during 2025-26.     12.3.2 It is 4 months since the International Strategy 2025-28 was approved.  During 2025 a lot has been achieved, despite the Strategy, itself, having only been approved for a relatively short period of time.     12.3.3 Bochum is Sheffield’s oldest Twin City, the relationship having been established in 1950.  It is pleasing to note that 75 years on, the relationship between both cities is very much alive and it is fitting that so many things have taken place to acknowledge the anniversary during 2025.  In addition, it is fantastic to witness the efforts of our universities to engage with each other in meaningful ways to cement this relationship between our two cities even further.     12.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     12.4.1 Alternative Option: ‘Do Nothing’ - The alternative option would be not to engage internationally.  Given the International Strategy 2025-28 was only approved by Strategy and Resources Policy Committee on 15 October 2025 acknowledging the need to formalise our international activities, inactivity would not be appropriate.  

Date of Decision: March 25, 2026