An eco-intercultural transition

“People” and the “society” have been gaining a central role in the scope of sustainable development until the latter became the foundation for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

However, while there is extensive guidance, scientific knowledge, legally binding instruments, and relatively big funding for a more sustainable development of our societies, there are still important gaps in dealing with the green transition in a way that is truly inclusive.

Taking the core principles of the intercultural approach into account, sustainable development policies and actions should ensure equal rights and opportunities to all, build on the diversity advantage, and enable meaningful intercultural interaction, active participation, co-creation, co-development and co-evaluation.

 So, how do we make this happen?

This topic is very broad and cannot be meaningfully addressed in general terms. The ICC programme has already explored three main areas:

  1. Including migrants and diversity in circular, green and inclusive economic models (2021): how to support diverse local business achieving the economic transition towards new economy models and access to the relevant technology? How can they diversify their offer? Which advantage they could bring to the society? How to build literacy and capacity in this field? How to ensure public measures taken under the local, national and international strategic plans to boost green businesses and the green job market are intercultural?
  2. Green urban planning for inclusive territories (2022): There is a growing recognition of the need for green urban planning and regeneration, and some measures in this sense are already being implemented. The green transition is, however, not automatically equitable, and must be carefully and thoughtfully implemented to ensure its outcomes are evenly distributed. Which policies to ensure the greening of our cities becomes a factor to reduce segregation and increase intercultural interaction?
  3. Preventing and minimising gentrification (2020): traditional urban renovation processes often result in communities losing their sense of identity when their environment is radically changed, and there are consequences for minority groups and the diversity of the community, which has an effect on opportunities for intercultural interaction. What can intercultural cities do to prevent the negative effects of gentrification?

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