THE POWER OF PEOPLE, PLACES & FIRMS
Reading Time: 11 minutesImagine a world where rural and tropical regions aren’t struggling backwaters, but breeding ground for fresh ideas, new jobs and sustainable growth.
In this episode of our #FromtheGroundUp series, Betty-Ann Bryce (OECD) sits down with Ingo Plöger (CEAL), for a conversation to explore how tropical regions, with abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity and favourable climate, can become engines of sustainable growth, innovation and resilient rural development.
Reading Time: 12 minutesIndia’s rural areas are developing at an extraordinary rate, posing both challenges and opportunities to rethink development at a large scale. Recorded live from the OECD Rural Development Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Shayne MacLachlan speaks with Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary to the Government in the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, about how India’s fascinating track-record of rural transformation can offer practical lessons to policymakers everywhere.
Reading Time: 9 minutesIn Greece, nearly a third of the population lives in rural areas, well above the OECD average, yet rural and urban communities remain deeply interconnected. From local partnerships to place-based investment, new approaches are reshaping how these spaces work together. What Greece teach us about building stronger rural-urban connections through integrated policy?
Reading Time: 4 minutesEn Colombia, más de 17 millones de personas, casi un tercio de la población, requieren cuidados o apoyo diario. Construir sistemas de cuidado sostenibles requiere coordinación entre sectores y niveles de gobierno, con base en principios de colaboración, descentralización y corresponsabilidad. Pero el esfuerzo vale la pena: garantizar el derecho al cuidado no es solo una obligación moral, sino un camino hacia comunidades más fuertes e inclusiva.
Reading Time: 3 minutesIn Colombia, more than 17 million people, nearly a third of the population, require daily care or support. Many of these children, adolescents, older adults, and people with disabilities are supported by more than 7 million unpaid caregivers. Building sustainable care systems requires coordination across sectors and levels of government, based on principles of collaboration, decentralisation, and shared responsibility.
Reading Time: 11 minutesWith hundreds of sustainability and impact labels in circulation, how can consumers, policymakers and investors identify organisations that really do put people over profit? In this episode, Shayne MacLachlan is joined by Ruben Rebelo from the European Commission and Sofija Rakcejeva from the OECD to explore how labels can do more than just make social economy more visible and easier to support but also help people do better.
Reading Time: 10 minutesThe 2025 OECD Report Reinforcing Rural Resilience reveals that OECD regions have seen a significant loss of forests, with approximately 10% of their forest cover disappearing between 2000 and 2020. To discuss solution-based approaches to this issue, we do not need to necessarily turn to new innovations or technologies, but rather we can look to past wisdom of indigenous knowledge in how to care for nature in a long-sustaining manner.
Reading Time: 10 minutesIn 11 of the 29 OECD countries included in the OECD Reinforcing Rural Resilience report, rural populations are declining. Discussing all things decentralisation, digitalisation and democracy in Kazakhstan, Shayne MacLachlan from the OECD has a conversation with Zhanerke Kochiigit. This conversation took place at the 2025 OECD Latin American Rural Development Conference, Rural-Urban Connections: Pathways to Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Have a listen.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn recent years, birth rates have been declining worldwide. But children are society’s treasure, and their radiant faces are hope for the future. That is why it is crucial for those of us here today to have a solid “strategy” and maintain a strong “will” to prepare an environment where those who wish to have and raise children can feel confident about doing so, and where children can grow up healthy and strong.
Reading Time: 4 minutesFrance is now sixth in the European rankings of countries with the most smart cities – and the Greater Paris area is leading the charge. Innovation is no longer optional for municipalities facing complex social and environmental challenges. It is now essential for cities build on the lessons from early pilots and to deliver transformative long-term digital strategies for the benefit of all.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLa France occupe désormais la sixième place du classement européen des pays comptant le plus de villes intelligentes, et la région parisienne est en tête. Face à des défis sociaux et environnementaux complexes, l’innovation n’est plus une option pour les municipalités. Elle est devenue essentielle pour tirer les enseignements des premiers projets pilotes et mettre en œuvre des stratégies numériques transformatrices à long terme, au bénéfice de tous.
Reading Time: 3 minutesTourism holds extraordinary potential as a catalyst for positive change. If driven by data, innovation and collaboration, it can strengthen communities, build more resilient economies and support healthier ecosystems. Tourism’s future, and its capacity to bring inclusive prosperity, rests on the ability to measure what matters, anticipate what is coming and act with purpose. Is the sector ready to do so?
Reading Time: 4 minutesOnly a decade ago, visitors were advised to avoid Dubrovnik during peak season due to near-continuous congestion in its narrow UNESCO-protected streets. Today, Dubrovnik stands as an emerging European model for sustainable, people-centred tourism. How can cities combine strategic governance, digital tools and community engagement to protect cultural heritage while ensuring a high quality of life for residents?
Reading Time: 3 minutesWhilst the strong emotional attachment to one’s home can be leveraged to bring back migrants that tackle skills gaps, diaspora populations that remain abroad can bring other benefits back home too. Engaging the diaspora should be understood as more than an effort to entice people to return home. Strong local identities endure long after migration, and policymakers can harness this attachment to mobilise skills, knowledge and investment from afar.
Reading Time: 5 minutesIn the Paris region, over 5.6 million square meters of office space sit vacant. At the same time, demand for housing (especially social housing) has reached critical levels, with fourteen applications per allocation on average. This mismatch – between empty offices and overcrowded homes, raises important issues about how we can make better use of the built environment to meet urgent housing needs.
Reading Time: 4 minutesSince the global financial crisis, business investment has struggled to recover, with real investment still 23% below its pre-2008 trend. The world isn’t short of good ideas or businesses, nor of finance. Yet the actual investment needed to fuel growth, jobs and the twin transitions continues to fall short. Can smarter policies on SME financing reignite investment and lead our economies to their best selves?
Reading Time: 4 minutesAcross the world, cities are quietly delegating the details of daily life to new artificial intelligence (AI) systems that make data driven recommendations about how resources and priorities are distributed. What begins as a promise of efficiency can also quietly define the invisible architecture of who controls public life. The work ahead calls for civic imagination and for ambitious leaders who can link algorithms to accountability.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLatin America’s rural communities produce much of the food, energy and minerals the world depends on. Yet for many rural residents, the promise of lasting prosperity often remains out of reach – because despite this wealth, insecure and informal work is widespread, undermining livelihoods, services, and long-term opportunity. But with the right tools and trust in place, rural regions can move from informality to inclusion.
Reading Time: 21 minutesThis conversation dives into how a small gathering in a local restaurant blossomed into a powerful neighbourhood network grounded in trust, conviviality, and mutual support. From organising a 1 500-person street banquet to creating WhatsApp groups that connect thousands of residents, Patrick and Marion share how intentional social ties can strengthen safety, wellbeing, and even help older neighbours remain in their homes.
Reading Time: 4 minutesAround the world, young entrepreneurs are showing that AI can be a technological and entrepreneurial revolution. By automating the mundane, amplifying creativity, and expanding access to knowledge, AI gives young founders the tools to build more resilient, innovative, and growth-ready businesses. With the right support today, AI can help unlock a future where every young entrepreneur has the tools and confidence to shape the economy of tomorrow.
Reading Time: 5 minutesIn the popular mindset, rural regions often conjure up images of dereliction and decline. Yet this is far from the reality. Rural areas are home to 30% of the OECD population and in some cases are outpacing cities in growth, productivity, and innovation. Why then do outdated narratives of rural decline continue to overshadow their contributions? It is time to dismantle the myths holding these regions back.
Reading Time: 4 minutesAcross the OECD, regions are scrambling for the skills needed to boost regional prosperity. For many, mobilising diaspora communities could help bolster the workforce, investment, and civic energy. Pairing quick fixes and core place-based investments in attractiveness factors like housing and public services can turn attachment into arrivals and long-term retention. The time is right: the pool of potential returners is large, and we are getting a handle on what works. Regions should act now to convert existing attachment into renewed demographic and socio-economic vitality.
Reading Time: 4 minutesReducing red tape and administrative burdens is not just a matter of convenience. It is a vital step towards encouraging business creation, innovation, and competition, for a more productive and prosperous future. Simplifying rules, digitising services and working across levels of government can unlock the potential of local businesses – whether they are launching tech startups or providing care services. How can we avoid suffocating our SMEs through red tape?
Reading Time: 4 minutesEurope has a ‘leaky bucket’ issue when it comes to nurturing young entrepreneurial talent. There is no lack in their production, but their retention is an issue. This phenomenon explains what the OECD calls the ”Missing Entrepreneurs” – the cohort of 812 000 potential young founders accounting for 11% of total untapped entrepreneurial potential. So, how do we move forward to a more promising future?
Reading Time: 5 minutesEuropa hat ein „Leck am Eimer“, wenn es um die Förderung junger Unternehmertalente geht. An Nachwuchs mangelt es nicht, doch die Entwicklung und Förderung dieser Talente scheitert kläglich. Dieses Phänomen erklärt, was die OECD als die „fehlenden Unternehmer“ bezeichnet – eine Gruppe von 812.000 potenziellen jungen Gründern, die 11 % des gesamten ungenutzten unternehmerischen Potenzials ausmachen. Was ist also die Ursache des Problems und wie können wir eine vielversprechendere Zukunft gestalten?
Reading Time: 10 minutesRecorded during the youth entrepreneurship policy academy (YEPA) Summit in Brussels, this session captures YEPA’s mission through an inspiring panel of three young entrepreneurs who share their journeys – including the highs, hurdles, and lessons learned. The discussion is moderated by Baptiste Mandouze, Social Economy Policy Officer at the European Commission, and features Adrian Davies, Elina Cohen-Periano, and Mateo de Bardeci. Let’s dive in and hear their stories.
Reading Time: 3 minutesGreater Manchester has recently outpaced London in productivity growth – a surprising shift that’s prompting many to ask: Is this the long-awaited “devolution dividend”? And could it finally help close the UK’s deep economic divides? Our recent study for the Manchester-based Productivity Institute suggests that advances in data science make it possible to identify a “sweet spot” in subnational government design. We must find it.
Reading Time: < 1 minute先進国の多くでは、国内の地域格差が拡大している現実が、全国平均の統計値の裏に隠れてしまっている。大都市圏が急速に成長する一方で、多くの中小都市や地方部はその歩みに追いつけずにいる。わたしたちCIPFAとバーミンガム大学City-REDI （City-Region Economic Development Institute：都市地域経済開発研究所）による最新の英日共同研究（日本語版報告書）は、この課題に真正面から取り組み、イギリスの「第二の都市」バーミンガム（およびウェスト・
Reading Time: 5 minutesAu cours des quinze dernières années, la population vivant dans les zones urbaines de l’Union européenne a augmenté de près de 12 millions de personnes. Dans un contexte d’urbanisation, une telle tendance n’a rien de surprenant. Mais sous la surface se cache une réalité plus complexe : toutes les villes ne profitent pas de cette croissance. Concrétiser le droit de rester suppose des politiques qui rééquilibrent la prospérité.
Reading Time: 9 minutesThis episode of OECD podcast features Joni Rakipi from ETH Zürich and is hosted by Shayne MacLachlan from the CFE. Joni, originally from Albania and now based in Zürich, explains deeptech as solving complex problems through scientific breakthroughs, emphasising its long-term impact. He highlights barriers young entrepreneurs face, such as limited access for foreign nationals and regulatory hurdles, advocating for open doors and deregulation to foster innovation.
Reading Time: 3 minutesPowerful forces are reshaping the world of work. Ageing populations, the transition to green energy, rapid digitalisation, and uneven connectivity are already redrawing the economic landscape. AI tools promise a way out – automating routine tasks, optimising schedules, even predicting maintenance needs before breakdowns. But for local leaders, a dilemma looms: will AI ease labour shortages or put people out of work – and their region?
Reading Time: 10 minutesIn this episode of OECD podcasts, Alix Philouze chats to Elina Cohen-Peirano, CEO & founder of URONE and a young entrepreneur who founded her first company at the age of 17. They discuss all things youth entrepreneurship – from balancing entrepreneurship and studies to the policy challenges facing youth entrepreneurship and the legacy of the YEPA programme, tune in to hear from a young entrepreneur, in her own words.
Reading Time: 4 minutesOver the past 15 years, Europe’s cities have grown by nearly 12 million people. Yet while Europe’s large cities have expanded by around 6.5%, smaller cities have shrunk by 1.7%. Western cities have been generally growing, while many in Eastern Europe are losing residents. This uneven growth raises an important question – what does it mean to have the Right to Stay in Europe’s shrinking cities?
Reading Time: 4 minutesBig metros power ahead while many towns and smaller regions struggle to keep up. A recent UK-Japan study, looks squarely at this problem through two ‘second city’ regions – Birmingham/the West Midlands and Osaka/Kansai – and distils a practical playbook that local leaders can use now. The argument is simple: finds durable institutions, functional regional geographies, flexible finance, and open learning loops are the levers that turn strategy into outcomes.
Reading Time: 5 minutesPhysical activity is far more than a personal health choice; it’s a powerful tool for improving public health, economic productivity, and social wellbeing. Despite strong evidence that investing in movement yields major health and economic returns, inactivity rates remain high across OECD countries. Successful interventions, such as the JU:MP programme in Bradford, demonstrate that community-driven, place-based approaches are far more effective in encouraging sustained movement.
Reading Time: 3 minutesOver the last decade, housing costs in big cities soared by 68% – far higher than in smaller cities or rural areas – stretching household budgets, and pricing young people and families out of urban centres. São Paulo offers a glimpse of what’s possible when cities use densification not just to build higher, but to build fairer. Can São Paulo’s new approach show the way for other cities?
Reading Time: 3 minutesItaly has always been a land of entrepreneurs. SMEs are crucial to the economic growth of Italy, accounting for around 80% of employment and generating more than 65% of the nation’s added value. But what about the next generation? How are Italian universities preparing young people to innovate? How are they training entrepreneurs to align economic goals with social and environmental responsibility? What is Italy’s next step?
Reading Time: 4 minutesPortugal shows that the green transition in textiles is both a climate imperative and a business opportunity to reshape production, secure jobs, and meet global demand for sustainable fashion. With SMEs at the core, progress must come from the bottom up, backed by coherent top-down policies. As the fashion cycle accelerates, so too does its environmental footprint – and the need to change our approach.
Reading Time: 3 minutesIn OECD countries, around 1 in 8 young people fall between the two and become “NEETs” – those neither working, studying, nor receiving training. In Latin America, it is 1 in 4 young people. But NEETs are not just a problem. They represent an opportunity – a vast pool of talent, full of skills and enthusiasm. With the right support, they can become a powerful and positive force for change.
Reading Time: 3 minutesVolunteering at Paris 2024 was a chance to support a global event, build skills, and connect communities through civic participation.
Reading Time: 4 minutesPredictive AI has served SMEs well, offering insights through data analysis and pattern recognition. However, Agentic AI goes further.
Reading Time: 4 minutesHow can France’s Loire Valley, long known for castles and wine, offer lessons for rural renewal today? Communities are turning heritage, agriculture, and local leadership into engines of social and economic revival with relevance far beyond the region.
Reading Time: 4 minutesComment les villes peuvent-elles bâtir un écosystème entrepreneurial qui soutient une croissance à la fois durable, inclusive et locale ? Paris est un bon exemple.
Reading Time: 4 minutesDe acuerdo con la UICN las Soluciones basadas en la Naturaleza (SbN) son intervenciones que protegen, gestionan y restauran ecosistemas naturales o modificados, abordando desafíos
Reading Time: 3 minutesNature-based Solutions (NbS) have the potential to mitigate up to 10 gigatonnes of CO₂ per year – about 27% of global annual emissions. As climate
Reading Time: 4 minutesParis is going beyond the basics to harness innovation and power not just startups but the future of entire cities.
Reading Time: 4 minutesChildren are disappearing from city centres. Between 2018 and 2023, 19 out of 30 European capitals saw the share of the population aged 0-14 decline
Reading Time: 3 minutesLa innovación y la tecnología, guiadas por la evidencia y el trabajo colaborativo, se han consolidado en Colombia como catalizadores clave para la transformación social
Reading Time: 3 minutesHow can data and local collaboration transform education? United Way Colombia is showing that when communities, innovation, and evidence come together, impact becomes not just possible, but measurable and scalable.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteProductivity is central to understanding economic success as it defines what outcomes can be achieved from a given set of resources. As such we are
Reading Time: 4 minutesWhat remains after the excitement of major events fades? Spirit of 2012 shows how targeted, well-measured programmes can turn Olympic buzz into lasting well-being gains, especially for those who need it most.
Reading Time: 5 minutesEach year, many Central American migrants return to the same challenges they left behind: scarce jobs, limited prospects and exclusion. But in parts of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, local actors are helping turn return into a fresh start.
Reading Time: 4 minutesItaly’s tourism sector is undergoing a quiet revolution. From AI-powered hospitality to immersive virtual experiences, small businesses are embracing digital tools to enhance authenticity, boost resilience, and connect more meaningfully with travellers.
Reading Time: 3 minutesA decade after their launch, the OECD Principles on Water Governance remain more relevant than ever. With floods, droughts and water demand rising, the world doesn’t just need more pipes, it needs smarter policies
Reading Time: < 1 minuteHow can we turn great ideas into lasting social impact? In this episode of the OECD Podcast, Shayne MacLachlan speaks with Jeroen Jutte, Head of the European Social Fund Coordination Unit at the European Commission.
Reading Time: 4 minutesBehind the humour and chaos of Clarkson’s Farm lies a serious story of rural struggle and resilience. This blog explores what it reveals, and what policy makers can learn about diversification, perception, and place-based solutions.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn struggling regions, feelings of alienation are growing. Recovery depends on tapping into local identity and pride, with place-based strategies that rebuild trust and opportunity. Long-term support is key to reconnecting communities to the economy and democracy.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSmall businesses face significant challenges amid rising tariffs and changing trade dynamics, often suffering more than larger firms. Governments are introducing support measures and SME-focused trade agreements to enhance their participation in global and local markets.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn today’s complex world, trust in government is more crucial than ever. At last year’s UCLG World Council, I introduced the “Hague Charter for Municipal
Reading Time: 4 minutesShrinking doesn’t have to mean failing. Finland’s border regions are showing that a new story is possible – and it’s one well worth watching.
Reading Time: 3 minutesRural areas are revitalizing through green and digital transitions, contributing significantly to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Tailored policies, community engagement, and improved services are essential for maximising their potential in economic growth and resilience.
Reading Time: 4 minutesA massive power outage on 28 April left millions in Spain and Portugal without electricity, impacting tourism and the economy significantly. This event underscores the vulnerability of tourism amidst crises, highlighting the need for robust infrastructure and emergency preparedness strategies.
Reading Time: 4 minutesCities are pivotal in the shift toward a circular economy, demonstrating immense potential in resource efficiency and innovation. They are leading initiatives, reducing waste, creating jobs, and require national support to enhance their efforts and maximize circular solutions globally.
Reading Time: 5 minutesThe world’s population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 10.2 billion by 2100. Many of these people will be on the move – pulled to new places by economic opportunity or pushed by conflicts, scarcity and a changing climate. For years, Gaziantep has been working on the front lines to support Syrian refugees. The lessons we have learned can help all cities prepare for the future.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSofia’s waste management reform focuses on improving disposal options, enhancing public engagement, and enforcing regulations. Initiatives include pop-up collection points and partnerships with residents, schools, and businesses, aiming to create a cleaner, more sustainable city for all.
Reading Time: < 1 minute仙台市は、東北大学や約70の企業・団体と連携し、スマートシティの実現に向けた取り組みを進めています。市民ニーズに基づく新たなサービスを創出し、地域の課題に対応する具体例を示しました。
Reading Time: 4 minutesSustainability is integral to Finland, where nature is ever-present. Climate action is a priority and lies at the heart of the City of Jyväskylä’s vision for the future. Achieving this vision requires a circular economy approach across all sectors. How can we make this a reality?
Reading Time: 3 minutesCities are crucial for national competitiveness. Turin is exemplifying this by integrating its industrial heritage with emerging sectors. Investing in people and education fosters innovation and a long-term strategy focusing on urban regeneration, sustainability, and inclusivity will prepare cities like Turin for future challenges.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn 2023 subnational governments across the OECD countries spent USD 13 trillion. But to get best value from this spending it needs to be aligned with the efforts of government and public agencies. A multilevel governance (MLG) approach seeks to achieve that. What lessons can countries learn from Poland’s experience?
Reading Time: 3 minutesJapan’s urban digital twin initiative, PLATEAU, creates dynamic 3D city models using data to enhance urban planning and governance. Launched in 2020, it supports over 250 municipalities, aiming for expansion to 500 by 2027.
Reading Time: 3 minutesMayors have faced numerous global challenges, yet these have opened opportunities for deeper connections with citizens. They urge national governments to embrace place-based policies, emphasising their significance in addressing regional needs, ensuring a just transition, and fostering resilience and prosperity for all.
Reading Time: 4 minutesEn Colombia, la mayoría de los trabajadores no recibe un comprobante de pago formal ni cotiza para una pensión. En 2024, el 55,4% de la fuerza laboral se encontraba en empleos informales, ganándose la vida en trabajos sin contrato laboral formal, sin protecciones legales ni acceso a la seguridad social.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn Colombia, most workers don’t get a formal payslip or a pension. In 2024, 55.4% of the workforce were in informal employment – earning their living in jobs without a formal job contract, legal protections or contribute to social security.
Reading Time: 3 minutesBy 2030, AI is projected to contribute USD 19.9 trillion to the global economy. Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, is embracing AI through a master plan aimed at enhancing public services and fostering economic growth.
Reading Time: 4 minutesTsukuba aims to be a leading city of the future, effectively managing Japan’s population decline by leveraging its research strengths and appeal. With advancements like generative AI and a focus on inclusivity, it addresses ageing challenges and enhances resident engagement. Tsukuba’s innovations position it as a model for sustainable urban development globally.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteWhat happens when First Nations take the lead in shaping the future of clean energy and infrastructure in Indigenous communities? In this episode, we hear from Mark Podlasly, CEO of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) and member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation in British Columbia.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteProfessor Carlos Moreno – creator of the “15-minute city” and now a leading voice behind the “30-minute region” – joins the OECD’s Soo-Jin Kim to explore how we can build more inclusive, connected and resilient places.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe building sector is responsible for a staggering 10 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions annually – 37% of global energy and process-related emissions. We need to slash that number over the next decade. It’s time for low carbon construction. Can cities make it a reality?
Reading Time: 4 minutesCities must adapt continually to retain and attract talent amidst global uncertainty. Lisbon is using tech innovation and cultural vibrancy to attract mobile talent.
Reading Time: 4 minutesChile, al igual que gran parte del mundo, está experimentando una profunda transformación demográfica, con una drástica caída en las tasas de natalidad y un aumento en la esperanza de vida. En Maipú, Chile, los líderes locales destacan la importancia de una planificación urbana y una gobernanza adaptadas a las personas mayores.
Reading Time: 4 minutesChile, like much of the world, is undergoing a profound demographic shift, as birth rates plummet and life expectancy soars. In Maipú, Chile, local leaders emphasize the importance of city planning and governance tailored for older residents.
Reading Time: 4 minutesGovernments around the world spend billions every year supporting innovation. Their investments generate breakthroughs that power economic and social progress. But are their investments in innovation reaching the places that need it most?
Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs and entrepreneurs are at an important crossroads. Recent challenges like pandemic shutdowns, high inflation, and rising interest rates persist, keeping financing conditions tight. As uncertainty grows, businesses and governments must choose: halt investments at the risk of innovation and competitiveness or find new ways to access capital.
Reading Time: 4 minutesOver 30% of Americans live in economically distressed local labour markets. With the right policies, these distressed local labour markets can be boosted to higher employment rates at a reasonable cost per job. Such policies would not only help these local labour markets, but also boost the national economy.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteVolunteers are the beating heart of any event, from the Olympics to your local school sports day. But beyond the medals and podiums, what impact does volunteering have on individuals, communities, and the broader economy?
Reading Time: 5 minutesSpecial Economic Zones (SEZs) have evolved beyond tax incentives to boost regional growth, focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, and talent. From Ireland’s Shannon Free Zone to China’s industrial hubs, their success hinges on strong governance and a place-sensitive approach. The challenge now is ensuring SEZs drive inclusive regional development.
Reading Time: 5 minutesIn January 2025, Los Angeles wildfires caused 25 deaths and $250 billion in damages, marking the most destructive fire in history. Wildfires increasingly threaten urban areas, driven by human behaviour and climate change, necessitating improved prevention efforts.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe global demand for critical raw materials is surging, with rare earth metals and lithium expected to increase significantly by 2030 and 2050. Learn how geospatial data can aid local governments in balancing economic growth with environmental risks amid this transition.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn 2024, AI usage surged in the EU27, with 13.5% of enterprises adopting it, spurred by accessible generative AI. However, disparities emerge as some firms and regions advance while others lag, raising concerns over increasing digital divides.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteL’intelligence artificielle générative augmente la productivité et aide à résoudre les pénuries de main-d’œuvre, mais accentue la fracture numérique entre urbain et rural.
Reading Time: 3 minutesRural areas face population decline, straining local services. Regional centres can enhance service efficiency, but many still decline. Emphasising accessible services, digital solutions, and improved transport can help maintain community vitality amid demographic changes.
Reading Time: 3 minutesCities heavily rely on connectivity for residents’ access to jobs, healthcare, and education. However, urban mobility varies significantly, with disparities in public transport access and essential services, particularly affecting low-income and suburban populations.
Reading Time: 4 minutesEntrepreneurs can experience a mix of exhilaration and stress due to the nature of their work. Learn how policymakers can help these individuals thrive through supporting their well-being and encouraging their success.
Reading Time: 4 minutesMalmö, Sweden, transformed from deindustrialization to a vibrant tech hub through innovation and inclusivity. Minc plays a crucial role in supporting startups, showcasing successful collaboration, funding access, and community diversity as keys to economic growth.
Reading Time: 3 minutesOver the next decade, 1.2 billion young people in emerging countries, especially Africa, face job scarcity. The thriving global music industry presents an economic opportunity, yet many nations ignore its potential for job creation and revenue growth.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe green and digital transitions require youth empowerment to address urgent ecological and technological challenges. Young voices bring creativity, urgency, and fresh perspectives, essential for shaping policies and fostering innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Reading Time: 3 minutesLa structure territoriale fragmentée de la France est inadaptée aux réalités modernes. Découvrez une proposition de réforme audacieuse qui aligne la gouvernance sur 900 bassins de vie, ce qui est essentiel pour résoudre efficacement et équitablement les problèmes de logement, de mobilité et de démocratie locale.
Reading Time: 3 minutesMassenentlassungen zerstören Gemeinden, können aber mit den richtigen Maßnahmen auch zu einer Erneuerung führen. Erfahren Sie, wie Strategien wie Diversifizierung, Umschulung und gezielte Unterstützung – wie in Oulu nach dem Niedergang von Nokia – den Arbeitnehmern helfen, sich umzustellen und die lokale Wirtschaft wieder aufzubauen.
Reading Time: 4 minutesMass layoffs devastate communities but can also spark renewal with the right policies. Learn how strategies like diversification, retraining, and targeted support, as seen in Oulu’s recovery after Nokia’s decline, help workers transition and rebuild local economies.
Reading Time: 3 minutesLearn how Sendai aims to become a leading smart city by leveraging technology for daily life improvements and resilience. See how they are collaborating with Tohoku University among other organisations on innovative projects.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLa calamidad en Valencia subraya una realidad impactante: invertir en resiliencia climática es una cuestión de vida o muerte. Nos hemos acostumbrado a ver tormentas tropicales y huracanes en América, Asia-Pacífico y el Caribe acaparando titulares. Pero la llamada “gota fría” en la región de Valencia, España, nos tomó por sorpresa.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe disaster in Valencia highlights the urgent need for investment in climate resilience. Learn how effective infrastructure and proactive measures are crucial to mitigating future risks.
Reading Time: 3 minutesRevitalising communities requires attention to social capital alongside physical infrastructure. Learn how trust and collaboration drive civic engagement – essential for overcoming contemporary crises.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSustainability reporting poses challenges for SMEs, hindering their green transition. To overcome this, accessible tools and simplified frameworks are needed, enabling SMEs to effectively demonstrate their sustainability performance and access green financing opportunities.
Reading Time: 4 minutes2024 is projected to be the hottest year on record, surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming above pre-industrial levels. Urgent action is required to address climate risks, particularly in vulnerable polar and tropical regions, to mitigate severe impacts.
Reading Time: 4 minutesTown centres face significant challenges from online competition and economic pressures, yet local SMEs remain vital. Hybrid retail models and community-focused strategies can foster resilience, encouraging consumers to support local businesses and enhancing urban sustainability.
Reading Time: 4 minutesRegional development agencies (RDAs) must adapt to rapid changes in climate, technology, and demographics. Learn about how utilizing foresight can enhance planning, resilience, and inclusivity in policymaking for future generations.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteLearn about Yalla Trappan, a social enterprise empowering foreign-born women in Sweden through job opportunities and financial independence to reduce social isolation.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteWith Urban Partners, learn about the intersection between investment management and local and national projects promoting climate and social sustainability, emphasizing inclusive investment and the importance of thriving communities.
Reading Time: 3 minutesAs OECD and EU regions anticipate significant population declines, local governments must adapt to maintain essential services. Nordic countries have effectively used inter-municipal cooperation (IMC) to share resources, manage costs, and ensure quality service delivery amid shrinking populations.
Reading Time: 2 minutes2024 is a pivotal year for democracies in more ways than one. Mounting economic inequities are threatening democracies and these threats can only be mitigated by an “urgent and focused” shared effort.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe twin transition alters labor markets, necessitating new skills and job creation. Learn how some regions adapt uniquely, leveraging strengths to address challenges such as skill gaps, demographic pressures, and workforce shortages.
Reading Time: 4 minutesTourism is at a crossroads, facing social, environmental and logistical issues. To maintain long-term sustainable growth in the sector, a stewardship approach must replace the growth-driven model.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Melbourne Climate Network unites diverse sectors to address climate challenges and foster economic growth. Learn how it emphasises collaboration, climate tech innovation, and inclusive job creation for sustainable development.
Reading Time: 4 minutesBraga, Portugal, is enhancing citizen engagement through participatory budgets, digital platforms, and inclusive programs. Learn how efforts focus on empowering diverse voices, utilizing data for informed participation, and fostering a culture of active citizenship for future democracy.
Reading Time: 3 minutesWith increasing demand for minerals and Environmental Social Governance (ESG) standards in the mining industry, it is important that communities, the private sector and other stakeholders collaborate effectively.
Reading Time: 4 minutesIntellectual Property (IP)- backed financing offers an opportunity for SMEs to find funding. This approach is still in its early days, and there are challenges to be overcome, however programs like WIPO’s IP Management Clinic can help SMEs navigate this space.
Reading Time: 3 minutesIn celebration of the 25th birthday of the Øresund Bridge, Greater Copenhagen solidifies its status as a leading cross-border region, showing significant economic growth and plans for further integration.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe green transition could create 15 million new jobs by 2030, but regional disparities and skill mismatches require collaboration to address.
Reading Time: 4 minutesHistorically, Indigenous communities have faced unequal benefits and limited capacity for development in mining projects. However, international and national efforts, along with industry shifts, are creating new possibilities for Indigenous involvement and well-being.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe tourism industry faces challenges from growing demand and social rejection. Despite this, it provides revenue for cultural preservation, sustains local businesses, and fosters community celebration.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe OECD report addresses the significant challenges to sustainability within the tourism sector. It’s time to call for coordinated actions to address these issues effectively.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable recovery post-pandemic. Looking ahead, the sector needs forward-thinking policies aligned with climate change, sustainability, and technology adoption.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs make up over 98% of businesses in the US, Canada, and the UK. AI tools can help them grow faster – but better policies and data are needed.
Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs face pressure to adopt digital and AI tools despite barriers. Government support and stakeholder collaboration are crucial for their success.
Reading Time: 4 minutesBrisbane is gearing up to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, aiming for long-term benefits through strategic planning, infrastructure, resident engagement, and global partnerships.
Reading Time: 3 minutesTrentino is facing stagnating productivity. In response, the local government is taking action to bolster high-tech manufacturing and support SMEs.
Reading Time: 3 minutesIn today’s fast-paced work environment, good mental health is essential for fostering productivity and prosperity. Discover Japan’s initiatives to build business resilience.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLe Maire de Paris a priorisé la création d’emplois et la transformation des vies grâce aux Jeux Olympiques. Un plan d’action a permis à 4 000 Parisiens de bénéficier de parcours d’emploi.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Mayor of Paris prioritised creating jobs and transforming lives for the Olympics. An action plan resulted in 4,000 Parisians benefiting from employment pathways – find out how.
Reading Time: 3 minutesItaly’s economy thrives on over 4 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – the highest number of SMEs among the EU’s Member States. These SMEs employ 13 million people and generate more than 65% of the nation’s added value. They are the powerhouse of the Italian economy, playing a crucial role in economic growth.
Reading Time: 4 minutesHigh inflation has driven SME interest rates up by 30% in 2022, making alternative finance like venture capital crucial for growth. Governments are working to develop VC markets.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe OECD’s “No Net Zero Without SMEs” campaign emphasises the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises in green innovation and climate action. Despite challenges, opportunities for sustainable SMEs are growing globally.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games aim to support local small businesses through targeted initiatives, including facilitating access to contracts and fostering entrepreneurship among youth. These efforts are expected to leave a lasting legacy for SMEs and local communities.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Games are evolving to address today’s challenges. Paris 2024 and LA28 lead with innovation, while Brisbane engages in community consultation for 2032.
Reading Time: 4 minutesParis 2024 relies on 45,000 diverse volunteers, guided by a comprehensive legal framework and matching assignments that enhance their effectiveness and satisfaction.
Reading Time: 4 minutesParis is preparing for the Games with a focus on low-carbon initiatives, in line with the RE2020 regulations. The project also emphasises the circular economy by prioritising innovative and reusing materials.
Reading Time: 4 minutesResponsible purchasing is a key focus of Paris’ approach to the circular economy. Vesto’s success demonstrates the potential of integrating the circular economy into large-scale events and public procurement.
Reading Time: 4 minutesFrom the start, Paris 2024 organizers aimed to create a lasting legacy in the Social and Solidarity Economy through the SSE 2024 Programme led by Les Canaux.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe ocean covers 70% of Earth’s surface and is crucial in regulating the climate. Immediate actions are needed to protect and restore ocean ecosystems.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLondon 2012 ‘s legacy includes pride and unity, and the Spirit of 2012 continues this legacy by focusing on social outcomes and wellbeing, a model for Paris 2024.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe social economy is 7% of global GDP in Japan. It uses co-operatives to address aging and gender gaps, highlighting the need for policy support and incentives.
Reading Time: 3 minutesWe spend so much of our lives in homes and workspaces. We need to focus on decreasing emissions via whole-life decarbonisation of buildings.
Reading Time: 4 minutesLocal governments are struggling to secure resources to deliver on the SDGs. But there are ways to improve fiscal capacity and financing, including partnerships with the private sector.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe transformative power of AI has reshaped business operations and customer engagement, promoting innovation, efficiency, and seamless communication. Embracing AI is crucial for business growth and a better future.
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe EU must urgently enhance competitiveness in green and digital transitions, requiring significant investment.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe pandemic has led to a surge in co-working spaces, offering flexible work options for professionals. These spaces can promote inclusivity by supporting diverse workers and creating local economic growth.
Reading Time: 3 minutesNearly 40% of remote OECD regions are shrinking due to aging populations and migration to cities. AI offers potential solutions, including improved healthcare delivery, education, and personalised services, but requires support and governance to mitigate risks.
Reading Time: 3 minutesOnly 9% of plastic waste is recycled in OECD countries. Transitioning to a circular economy could yield significant environmental and economic benefits, but bold policy action is needed to drive this change.
Reading Time: 5 minutesL’action climatique locale est la bienvenue et depuis longtemps attendue. Cependant, nous savons que passer de l’ambition à l’action s’est révélé être un défi par le passé. Que peuvent faire les dirigeants nationaux et locaux pour que cela se réalise ?
Reading Time: 4 minutesLocal climate action is welcome and long overdue. However, we know that moving from ambition to action has proved a challenge in the past. What can national and local leaders do to make it happen?