UNITAC Conference Urban Tech for Equity: International Guidelines on People-Centred Smart Cities

Abstract

UNITAC Hamburg organized a hybrid conference from 18th to 20th of June 2024 bringing together academic institutions and practitioners to discuss how data-driven urban technologies can reduce social inequality. In our research and in projects we focus on the question how local residents from marginalized communities (often in informal settlements) engage with technology and we reflect the ambivalence between using “tech for good” and knowing that the same technology can create oppression and surveillance. We are tech developers and optimists, and we want to share knowledge about how partners in other countries and other contexts are implementing urban and regional data projects that support empowerment and equity for local communities. The conference took place in the context of the “International guidelines on people-centred smart cities” process, which is being coordinated by UN-Habitat and discussed with all UN member states. Our focus is key consideration one in the concept paper: “Ensure the equal participation and appreciation of people, including women and girls, children and youth, persons with disabilities, older persons and people in vulnerable situations, and ensure that digital and other new technologies contribute to reducing spatial, economic, social and digital inequalities, overcoming economic and social development challenges and supporting respect for human rights for inclusive cities.” In line with UNITAC’s research focus, the main emphasis of the conference was on the spatial aspects of inequality.