Cities continuously evolve in shape, size, characteristics, and functions. They are dynamic, innovative, plural, public, and productive by definition and that is why urbanization, in its different forms, is considered one of the twenty-first century’s most transformative trends. New technologies and innovative solutions in different fields can potentially help in making cities more attractive, liveable, well governed, and prosperous. Despite the increasing attention to cities at policy level, gaps in knowledge still exist, in particular on new phenomena that take place in cities.

On the World Cities Day, the JRC’s Community of Practice on Cities (CoP-CITIES) discusses with selected partners its main research and policy-support activities on cities and in particular the ongoing preparation of the Report on the Future of Cities.
The CoP-CITIES allows the scientific community and policy-makers addressing specific challenges and features of cities and urban systems (including for instance social polarisation and spatial segregation, housing unaffordability, and demographic trends) promoting the adoption of a 'territorial' point of view, i.e. placing the 'territory' and not the 'theme' at the centre of the analysis.

Building upon the knowledge produced by CoP-CITIES and with the support of other Directorates General of the European Commission and external partners, the Report on the Future of Cities discusses a series of contemporary urban challenges and emerging phenomena. Building on scientific evidences, the report proposes a description and initial interpretation of emerging urban phenomena, highlighting the possibilities that innovative research methodologies and a multi-disciplinary approach can offer to the study of future cities and to the design of sustainable integrated policies supporting urban transformation.

On October 30th, the JRC presents the overall concept of the report, including insights from the first chapters drafted: the rationale of the report (why should we talk about the future of our cities?); the issue of the definition of a city (what is a city?); the use of space in a city (how can public space help to address future urban challenges?); and the provision of city services (what are the challenges in providing city dwellers with good access to commercial, education and health services, etc.). The report will be enriched on the basis of the discussion in the Community of Practice and in contacts with stakeholders in the coming months. A final report is planned for the summer of next year. The Knowledge Centre for Territorial Policies coordinates the elaboration of the Report that will continue in the next months with periodical releases of chapters.

The World City Day

The World Cities Day’s aim is to promote the international community’s interest in global urbanization, push forward cooperation among countries and cities in meeting opportunities and addressing challenges of urbanization, and contributing to sustainable urban development. The World Cities Day contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals and it is recognized by the New Urban Agenda as a priority platform for partners. The overall World Cities Day theme is Better City, Better Life and this year’s particular theme is Building Sustainable and Resilient Cities.