Sophie Woodville

The session will highlight the role of cities in fostering human rights in the digital era and promoting a human-centered digital transformation. A first dialogue will expose how and why cities are relevant to addressing digital rights challenges. It will be followed by a solution dialogue, showcasing different projects from cities to uphold digital rights in urban spaces.

This roundtable will discuss the fundamental challenge facing cities today: how to reap the benefits of digital transformation and ensure it delivers for everyone, fostering social inclusion and integrating the environmental aspect. City representatives will bring their examples and perspectives and discuss how international cooperation can support cities in playing their part to achieve the twin transition and Sustainable Development Goals.

The session will bring together stakeholders from cities, local governments, and European institutions to discuss how to uphold the place of digital rights in local and European programs and policies and what is needed at all levels of decision-making to build a digital rights focused digital transformation.

Discussions will focus on how the 'International Guidelines on People-Centred Smart Cities' can contribute to more inclusive smart city development, as they are developed upon the request of 193 Member States. The event emphasizes the strategic convergence of global frameworks with local leadership, particularly highlighting the critical roles city leaders play in driving urban digital transformation, supported by practical examples.

What are the new developments cities are using to enhance digital services? How are they ensuring a higher speed, accessibility, and efficiency in delivering top-notch city services? As city agencies take the lead in the use of digital technologies to better serve residents, businesses, visitors, and all who depend on urban services, this roundtable will unravel the skills and infrastructures reshaping advanced digital services.

This session will feature the participation of our global partners Microsoft