Transforming the cities of today and tomorrow – The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provides a platform for cities and communities to exchange knowledge, identify policy needs and develop vital international standards that support digital transformation for people-centred cities and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG11, make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

How the ITU Helps Build Smart Cities and Communities

Standardization with Global Reach: ITU-T Study Group 20

ITU-T Study Group 20 (SG20): Internet of things (IoT) and smart cities and communities (SC&C) develops international standards (ITU-T Recommendations) providing commonly agreed guidance for implementing the Internet of Things (IoT) and its applications, as well as smart cities and communities. Its work supports digital transformation in both urban and rural areas enabled by solutions in fields such as IoT, digital twins, and artificial intelligence.

The next ITU Study Group 20 meeting will take place on 15-24 January 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

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Digital Transformation Dialogues (DTD)

The Digital Transformation Dialogues (DTD) offer a dynamic platform to facilitate a deeper understanding of emerging technologies to reshape traditional processes, improve operational efficiency and unlock new possibilities for innovation and standardization. Engage in illuminating discussions that propel digital transformation forward by joining our webinars, fireside chats and ask the expert sessions.

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United for Smart Sustainable Cities

The United for Smart Sustainable Cities (U4SSC) is a global UN initiative that supports cities and communities in accelerating digital transformation and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The U4SSC accomplishes this through its Thematic Groups, developing action plans and guidelines, and the Key Performance Indicator project, which evaluates ICTs’ role and provides tools for self-assessment to promote smartness and sustainability in cities.

The Eighth meeting of the U4SSC will take place on 19 September 2024 in Madrid, Spain.

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KPIs for Smart Sustainable Cities​

The U4SSC KPIs are a vital tool for cities wishing to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. They support cities and communities worldwide in evaluating their level of smartness and sustainability. ​Over 200 cities worldwide are already implementing these KPIs.

Read the latest City Snapshot and Verification Report on Anyang, Korea (Republic of)

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Meetings and Events

ITU together with other organizations, cities and other UN agencies are organizing a series of meetings and events on digital transformation for cities and communities. Don’t miss out on these key events.

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Toolkit on Digital Transformation for People-Oriented Cities and Communities

The Toolkit on Digital Transformation for People-Oriented Cities and Communities supports strategizing and planning the digital transformation of cities and communities to promote sustainable, inclusive, resilient and improved quality of life for residents in cities and communities.

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Strengthening collaboration with SDOs and industry Fora

Check out how ITU collaborates with various Standards Development Organizations (SDO) and industry organizations on vital smart sustainable city projects and initiatives.

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