The Urban Leaders We Need

The event will partly be based on the experiences of the independent think tank Global Challenge (Global Utmaning) and the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SALAR), and particularly the initiatives Nordic Urban Ways and the SymbioCity approach. Illustrative examples will show the role of leadership in letting economic, social and ecological sustainability be the drivers of development, transforming Swedish and Nordic cities into some of the most livable in the world. Governance and development of cities entails guiding society and its organizations towards long-term visions and goals, as well as balancing needs, demands and priorities. This requires a leadership that goes beyond the management of plans, people and resources. Urban planning is often left to planners and engineers, but planning and developing environmentally, economically and socially sustainable cities requires a holistic perspective and public participation. Successful city leaders understand and communicate the needs of the city, develop a long-term vision and facilitate processes that involve all stakeholders. But leadership in governance and development is also about taking uncomfortable decisions, thinking outside the box, being a true visionary and proposing innovative solutions that challenge people to move out of their comfort zones. Focus will be on the role of political leaders and decision-makers in leading communities towards sustainable development by inspiring, convincing and involving all stakeholders. The event will evolve around four perspectives: -Developing and realizing a shared vision. -Mobilizing stakeholders to share ownership -Bridging boundaries and ensure continuity -Promoting integrated working methods, both within and between local governments, stakeholders and citizens.