Regeneration
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Palestine
On Monday and Tuesday 30 and 31st of November, the Second Palestinian
Urban Forum (PUF II) took place in Birzeit under the slogan “Localizing the New
Urban agenda: Shaping the future of Palestinian Cities”. Whereas in the first
Urban Forum (Nablus, March 2012) the rapid and uncontrolled urban development
in the Palestinian cities, towns and villages was seen as a big challenge, now,
in 2017, it became clear that urbanization can be a source of opportunities and
solutions rather than challenges.
The Forum focused on 4 key themes: Integrated Urban Planning; Urban
Economy; Inclusive and cohesive cities; and Innovation and future cities. During the forum a special focus was given to
Local Economic Development, which is a core pillar of our LGRDP program. Our
colleague Bashir Barghouthi spoke about the informal economy and sustainable
urban development in Palestine as part of the session on Local Economy
Development – Cities as incubators.
Furthermore, the RHC program was presented by Bosayna Abu Eisheh, the national
coordinator for the RHC program at the Ministry of Local Government. She
explained how old towns should be seen as the engine for the local economy. “Cultural
heritage in Palestine is considered as an asset rather than a hinder for
socio-economic development. […] Improving the infrastructure and services of
the historic centers to meet the modern needs will attract and encourage the
private sector to invest in these historic centers by having small businesses
that provide job opportunities for the residents of the village.”
During the closing session recommendations towards a New Urban Agenda in
Palestine were formulated. Overall, this Forum highlighted once more the
ongoing efforts and dynamics, as well as the opportunities that are to be
seized in the future.
More information on the Forum can be found here: www.pufii.ps
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