The Global Policy Lab: Living Cities is a collaborative journalism initiative dedicated to investigating the complex hurdles modern urban societies face during an era of rapid transformation. As the gig economy expands across Europe, it has claimed a significant share of urban labor markets. Local leaders are currently grappling with the difficulties of supporting workers who face erratic income streams and minimal job security, prompting an examination of how European regions can transform this sector into a net benefit for local residents.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered how Europeans live, work, and commute. With jobs becoming increasingly flexible and remote, many residents are choosing to leave expensive, large metropolises for smaller, more livable alternatives. This shift forces a critical question: how must cities redesign their transportation infrastructure to meet these evolving needs in the 21st century? This project explores how to create transport networks that are green, people-friendly, efficient, and affordable.
Housing remains a primary concern, as EU construction rates fail to meet demand, and existing structures often fall short of modern energy efficiency standards. This report investigates the existential threats posed by housing shortages and the policy interventions being tested to address them. Furthermore, the project analyzes how major innovation, pharmaceutical, and tech hubs are revitalizing European cities, much like production centers fueled urban growth during the Industrial Revolution.
Beyond infrastructure, the project explores strategies for maintaining affordable housing, managing tourism, fostering inclusivity, and preserving cultural vibrancy in an increasingly digital world. By collaborating with readers and experts, journalists will assess what causes cities to flourish or flounder, comparing European urban centers against international peers to identify lessons in infrastructure and public service innovation.
Health and well-being are also central themes, as the project investigates the link between housing and health, initiatives for mental and sexual well-being, and the role of urban planning in securing access to healthy outdoor spaces. Finally, with cities responsible for 70 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, this initiative examines the dramatic rethinking required to curb global warming. This includes efforts to reduce carbon footprints, mitigate air, light, and sound pollution, and promote water conservation and greener lifestyles among urban populations.
Not enough new homes are being built in the EU to account for demand and those that do exist fail to meet energy efficiency standards. In this special report, we’ll look at the existential threat the lack of housing poses for cities and discuss what policymakers are trying to do to tackle that challenge.
