Murat Akbaş is an experienced project development and international relations professional with a strong background in municipal governance, sustainability, and economic development. He currently serves as the Head of Surveys and Projects Department at Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality (since October 2024), where he leads strategic initiatives focused on urban development, project financing, and international collaborations to enhance local governance and infrastructure.
With 15 years of experience at UNDP, Murat played a key role in implementing large-scale EU-funded projects and fostering collaboration between municipalities, international organizations, and private sector partners. His work has contributed to enhancing youth employment, economic resilience, and sustainable urban development in various regions, particularly in Eastern and Southeastern Turkey.
Prior to his current role, he worked as a Regional Coordinator at UNDP Turkey, leading projects under the Inclusive and Sustainable Growth Programme, including the Today’s Youth, Future Jobs Project, which focused on strengthening Türkiye’s human capital and digital skills development. He also held key positions such as Mayor’s Advisor for Şanlıurfa and Kilis Municipalities, and Strategic Planning and Management Chief at Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality.
Murat specializes in grant writing, policy development, and digital transformation strategies for municipalities, ensuring that cities leverage innovation and international best practices to address pressing urban challenges. His leadership in cross-sector partnerships has facilitated impactful programs that support climate resilience, gender equality, and social inclusion.
A strong advocate for justice and fair governance, Murat has actively worked to uphold transparency and accountability in the organizations he has been part of. His diplomatic and assertive approach to policy advocacy has been instrumental in addressing institutional challenges and rights violations within international development organizations.
Murat holds a PhD in Business Administration and Organization from Istanbul University (thesis stage), a Master’s degree in Urban Policy Planning and Local Governments from METU, and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from METU.
Murat is passionate about creating sustainable and inclusive urban environments through collaborative governance models and strategic international cooperation. His vision is to empower local governments and communities by ensuring access to resources, knowledge, and networks that foster long-term resilience and prosperity.