Caring as a Way of Governing

In his opening remarks, our coordinator Adrià Duarte emphasized that the concept of a caring city is much more than an emerging trend: it is a vision of a city that centers dignity, autonomy, and the participation of all people. “Care is not just about responding to the needs, but also about governing with empathy, co-responsibility, and social justice,” he stated.

From UCLG, Anna Calvete, Head of Research, presented the progress of the collaborative process leading to the GOLD VII Report, where more than 50 contributions from around the world have highlighted how care can transform institutional structures, boost local democracy, and sustain life in all its dimensions: physical, emotional, community-based, and ecological.

Inspiring Local Experiences

• Amman:

Nisreen I. Dauod, Manager of Sustainable Development and Resilience Unit at the Greater Amman Municipality, shared how the city has integrated community urban agriculture into its climate action plan. This strategy not only improves food security and resilience to climate change, but also creates spaces for gathering, training, and sustainability for over 150,000 people, including refugees and vulnerable populations. The city has implemented neighborhood gardens, urban farms, and green rooftops, promoting a true culture of urban care.

• Osório: 

Alencar Massulo, from the Territorial Management Team of the City of Osório, presented a pioneering project in which children actively participated in the revision of the city's Master Plan. Their inclusion allowed for a rethinking of urban development with a future-oriented lens, focused on sustainability rather than just construction indicators.

• Aragón:

María Jesús Latorre, from the Government of Aragón, explained how the Easy Government initiative guarantees the right to participation for people with disabilities. Through easy-to-read workshops, accessible materials, and legislation in understandable formats, Aragón strengthens participatory democracy and recognizes everyone’s right to understand, express opinions, and make decisions.

• Maia:

Ana Silva Fernandes and Lucília Lima, from the Municipality of Maia, presented a public housing approach based on proximity, inclusion, and care. Through participatory projects, the municipality has promoted the social integration of vulnerable communities, recognizing the right to housing through a logic of co-responsibility and citizen empowerment.

Key Takeaways for Moving Forward:

The webinar left behind powerful messages:

• Care is the foundation of a more inclusive and trustworthy democracy.
• Citizen participation is a form of care in itself.
• Sustainability is only possible when the well-being of people and the planet is at the center.

 As Ana Falú, UBUNTU advisor at UCLG, stated: “ Care requires political will, recognition of diversity, and a deep understanding of the role of local governments in redistributing and rewarding care. ” 

From the Committee and the OIDP, we invite you to continue enriching this collective process, sharing experiences, and building together new ways of governing with and for care.

Watch the Webinar here: