Building Cities for People, Local Democracy Are at the Heart of Urban Development
Every year on 31 October, World Cities Day brings Urban October to a close by celebrating the role of cities as engines of progress, resilience, and innovation. This year’s theme, People-Centred Smart Cities, reminds us that true innovation in urban development begins with people, their needs, participation, and the local institutions that represent them.
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At SALAR International, this belief shapes everything we do. For 25 years, we have worked with local and regional governments around the world to strengthen democracy, resilience, and sustainable urban development. Our mission has always been to ensure that urban transformation begins where it matters most — at the local level, with those who know their communities best.
From Swedish experience to global practice
Sweden’s municipalities are known for combining local democracy with innovation and service delivery that directly meets citizens’ needs. Through SALAR International, this experience has been shared globally — from small towns rebuilding after conflict to growing cities seeking new ways to manage rapid urbanisation.
In each context, we see the same truth: development becomes sustainable when local governments are trusted, capable, connected to their citizens and where local actors and citizens’ groups are involved in driving the change. That is how cities become truly smart — when decisions are made through evidence-base and stakeholder engagement, grounded in local knowledge and responsive to people’s lives. The SymbioCity Approach, developed from Sweden’s experience in sustainable urban planning, illustrates this principle in action. It is a practical, adaptable methodology that promotes cooperation between sectors, participatory planning, and long-term vision. With the right tools, partnerships, and commitment, cities everywhere have the opportunity to become more sustainable, more inclusive, and more resilient.
Resilience and recovery: lessons from Türkiye and Ukraine
In Türkiye and Lebanon, our RESLOG programme has helped local governments strengthen their ability to lead during crises. Whether faced with migration, economic strain, or natural disasters, municipalities have built systems for collaboration, data-based planning, and recovery that reflect local priorities. These experiences have become models of how to turn adversity into innovation through local ownership and cooperation.
In Ukraine, our work through the Polaris programme continues a decade of support to decentralisation and reform. Through recovery and reconstruction, municipalities have shown remarkable strength — maintaining essential services and rebuilding communities despite the ongoing challenges of war. Their example demonstrates the vital role that empowered local governments play in recovery, peacebuilding, and national renewal.
Connecting local democracy to global agendas
Today, SALAR International’s engagement extends beyond individual projects. Through initiatives like Team Sweden Smart Cities, we connect Swedish municipalities, regions, and companies to global efforts promoting sustainability and inclusive urbanisation. This engagement is not only about influence abroad — it also drives innovation and growth at home, bringing back lessons, partnerships, and opportunities that benefit local communities in Sweden.
A people-centred urban future
As cities around the world grow and change, one idea endures: sustainable development starts with local democracy. When citizens are engaged, when local governments are empowered, and when urban planning is inclusive, cities become more resilient, equitable, and inspiring places to live.
On this World Cities Day, we celebrate those local leaders, planners, and communities who are proving that “smart” is not about how advanced a city’s systems are — but how well they serve the people who call it home.