Networks and cities' news

Catch up on the latest updates from cities working together in URBACT Networks. The articles and news that are showcased below are published directly by URBACT’s beneficiaries and do not necessarily reflect the programme’s position.

Want to learn more about the projects that are featured here? Discover the URBACT Networks.

 

 

  • SCHOOLHOOD’s fourth stop on its journey to safe, green and happy ways to school

    Vasilis Koutalas

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  • The S.M.ALL Ad-hoc Serie - Issue 1 - Io and the Cities

    Welcome to The S.M.ALL Ad-Hoc Series, where we explore how small and medium-sized European cities empower themselves to reshape local mobility to be more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable. Through this series, our Ad-Hoc Experts will share key insights, practical approaches, and success stories emerging from this collaborative journey.

    Io Chatzivaryti

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  • Bringing Life Back to Public Spaces: The Revival of the Park Near Corfu’s Correctional Facilities

    What was once a vandalized, neglected space filled with garbage is now starting to show signs of new life! Thanks to the URBACT Re-Gen initiative, led by Kapodistriaki Development S.A. in collaboration with the Municipality of Central Corfu and the Diapontian Islands, the park near the Correctional Facilities of Corfu is transforming into a welcoming public space.

    Desiree Zucchi

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  • Unlocking Public Spaces for Youth Engagement: A Holistic Approach to Health and Nutrition

    Public spaces are more than recreational areas; they hold the potential to become dynamic hubs for promoting physical activity, healthy eating, and social interaction among young people aged 10-18. Yet, in many cities, these vital spaces remain underused or inaccessible to youth, either by design or neglect. The Re-GEN URBACT Action planning network has taken up the challenge to redesign public spaces in such a way that they become vital arenas where the youngsters can gather, express themselves and connect with their communities.

     

    In the context of increasing health concerns[1], innovative strategies that merge outdoor activities and nutrition education can foster lifelong healthy habits. Drawing on successful examples from across Europe and also outside of Europe, this article explores how local governments and communities can effectively transform public spaces into vibrant centers for youth engagement.


     


    [1] Youth health in both the Netherlands and the EU faces significant challenges. In the Netherlands, 11.3% of children (ages 4-12) and 12.2% of teens (ages 12-16) are overweight, while 30% of students report mental health issues. Similarly, EU data highlights that nearly one in five youth deaths is linked to intentional self-harm

    Desiree Zucchi

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  • Unlocking the potential of remote work: insights from the Remote-IT network

    The global workforce is undergoing a profound transformation, with remote work and digital nomadism reshaping economies, urban planning, and governance. For cities, this shift presents both opportunities and challenges: How can urban areas attract and retain skilled remote workers? How can public administrations integrate remote and hybrid work models while maintaining efficiency?

    The Remote-IT Network, composed of eight European cities—Dubrovnik, Brindisi, Tartu, Murcia, Heraklion, Bucharest District 6, Câmara de Lobos, and Tirana—explores strategies to make cities more adaptable to remote work. Through transnational meetings, testing action initiatives, and discussions in forums and podcasts, the network has identified key insights and recommendations for cities aiming to become leaders in the future of work.

    Alisa Aliti Vlasic

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  • 2Nite_Riga Meeting_cover

    Riga (LT), 16th January 2025 - 2nite Bilateral Visit

    Bilateral Visit: a new collaboration between Riga and Turin

    Giulia Datta

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