What makes a city truly livable in the 21st century? How do we build cities that nurture both the environment and the people who live in them?
These were two of the guiding questions at the UrbanFest in Belgrade on September 22nd, 2024. The festival was focused on cities and citizens in a rapidly changing global era. The primary goal of UrbanFest was to bring together people who care about both cities and the environment. The event was organized by an informal association of urban enthusiasts.
The festival was attended by urbanists, architects, sociologists, designers, and active citizens. The presentations by speakers covered various topics such as urban planning, decision-making, green infrastructure, community empowerment, and architecture and design. Several speakers specifically addressed different aspects of Belgrade’s development.
In the era of smart cities and rapid urbanization, the voices of citizens are crucial to shaping the future of urban development. That is why the practical side of the event included workshops where participants could propose ideas and collaborate on solutions for various challenges related to Belgrade’s development.
One workshop focused on air quality in the city. Another explored the participatory design of Lower Dorcol (a neighborhood in Belgrade) aimed at creating a model for developing a creative district that balances the interests of government, businesses, NGOs, and local communities.
A third workshop involved reimagining and constructing Belgrade streets with various elements. The fourth was dedicated to the development of Zvezdara Forest, a park in Belgrade, from the perspective of local residents and the city’s inhabitants. With workshops the conference showcased innovative approaches to urban challenges while emphasizing the importance of community-driven solutions.
