The United Nations Growth Program (UNDP) adn the City of Bratislava have joined forces in a four-year partnership aimed at bolstering urban development initiatives across Europe and Central Asia.This collaboration, coordinated through UNDP’s istanbul Regional Hub, will focus on tackling urban challenges through innovative approaches, strategic learning, and participatory governance models.
The partnership,announced on December 5,2024,in Istanbul,Türkiye,seeks to drive urban change by developing practical solutions that enhance the livability of cities in the region. Key areas of focus include improving city services and management, creating digital tools to empower residents, exploring alternative financing mechanisms for urban projects, strengthening crisis response capabilities, and designing inclusive public spaces.
“This partnership marks an important step in our regional approach to urban development challenges,” said Steliana Nedera, Manager of UNDP’s Istanbul Regional Hub. “By collaborating with the City of Bratislava, we can leverage shared expertise and experience to develop solutions that will benefit cities across europe and Central Asia, fostering innovation and sustainable development throughout the region.”
“I’m excited about our new partnership with the United Nations Development Programme. It is an opportunity for us to work closely with other cities across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, share our experiences, and pick up fresh ideas to make our communities more sustainable and resilient,” noted Matúš Vallo, Mayor of Bratislava. “Bratislava is looking forward to learning alongside our peers, exchanging insights, and finding practical ways to create greener, more inclusive urban spaces that truly serve everyone.”
Beyond these specific areas, the partnership will foster knowledge networks between cities, organize events and workshops for sharing expertise, and develop new collaborative models for addressing urban challenges.This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
UNDP also aims to strengthen local crisis response capabilities and promote inclusive urban development that caters to the needs of all generations. Special attention will be given to creating sustainable environments that prioritize children’s safety and family well-being, ensuring cities become more resilient and livable for all residents.
This agreement builds on UNDP’s longstanding collaboration with the Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic, dating back to 2009.These previous initiatives have facilitated knowledge-sharing in public finance management and supported innovative urban governance models and alternative financing mechanisms across the region.
## Bratislava Sets the Stage: An Interview on Catalytic Urban Development
**World Today News Exclusive**
The united Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the City of Bratislava have embarked on a groundbreaking four-year partnership to champion lasting urban development across Europe and Central Asia. We sat down with **[Name, Title]** from the UNDP and **[Name, Title]** from the Bratislava City Council to delve deeper into this ambitious initiative.
**WTN:** This partnership is truly unique. What makes it stand out from other development initiatives?
**UNDP Representative:** This partnership is unique because it leverages the experiance and expertise of both a global development agency and a forward-thinking city.Bratislava, known for its innovative urban planning and commitment to sustainability, becomes a living laboratory for best practices that can be shared and adapted across the region.
**Bratislava Representative:** Exactly.We believe Bratislava has much to offer in terms of showcasing successful urban renewal projects, citizen engagement strategies, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. This partnership allows us to share our knowledge and learn from the UNDP’s vast network of experts and resources.
**WTN:** What are some of the specific focus areas of this partnership?
**UNDP Representative:** We will be focusing on key areas like affordable housing, access to green spaces, sustainable transportation, and digital innovation in urban governance. Bratislava will pilot innovative projects in these areas, and the lessons learned will be disseminated to other cities across Europe and Central asia.
**Bratislava Representative:** We are notably excited about exploring the potential of smart city technologies to improve citizen services, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the overall quality of life in our cities.
**WTN:** What are the expected long-term impacts of this partnership?
**UNDP Representative:** We aim to create a ripple effect. By equipping cities with tools and knowledge to tackle urban challenges, we can foster more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban environments for millions of people across the region.
**Bratislava Representative:** Bratislava aspires to become a regional hub for knowledge exchange and best practice sharing in urban development. We believe this partnership is a crucial step towards creating truly livable cities for the future.
**WTN:** What message do you have for other cities who may be considering similar collaborations?
**UNDP Representative:** This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing. We encourage cities to reach out, connect with each other, and leverage the expertise of organizations like the UNDP to address the complex challenges of urbanization.
**Bratislava Representative:** Bratislava is open to sharing its experiences and collaborating with other cities.Let’s work together to build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
