High-Level Dialogue: Mayors - Localizing the Twin Transition


Global Cities Hub

Session 382

Wednesday, 8 July 2026 11:00–11:45 (UTC+02:00) Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation Room C, Palexpo High-Level Dialogue
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Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation


Translating high-level green and digital policy goals into coherent, actionable strategies, and practical pathways

The Smart City Leaders’ Talk discusses the issue of the twin transition at the level of people-centered and sustainable smart cities and provides a great example of an inclusive dialogue between international organizations and local governments on this important topic. It explores the different challenges of the twin transition faced by municipalities: translating high-level green and digital policy goals into coherent, actionable strategies, and practical pathways that reflect local realities. It will offer practical insights for cities seeking to connect green and digital priorities in ways that are locally relevant, inclusive, and resilient.

The twin transition refers to the simultaneous and synergistic integration of the digital transformation (AI, IoT, big data) and the green transition (sustainability, circular economy) to foster sustainable, resilient growth. The goal is not just smarter cities, but people-centred, environment-conscious smart cities where leaders make better decisions using the right data. When digitalization is guided by empathy, transparency, and participation, it becomes more than innovation – it becomes impact.

Topics
Capacity Building Digital Economy Digital Inclusion Digital Transformation Environment Ethics Global Digital Compact (GDC) Smart Cities WSIS+20 Review
WSIS Action Lines
  • AL C7 E–GOV logo C7. ICT applications: benefits in all aspects of life — E-government
  • AL C7 E–ENV logo C7. ICT applications: benefits in all aspects of life — E-environment
  • AL C11 logo C11. International and regional cooperation

Connecting the vision of SDGs to the local realities and needs on the ground through the WSIS Action lines using SDG taxonomy might bring significant local impact:

·         WSIS Action line C7 on e-governance in the form of smart cities, allowing faster municipal service delivery, easier access to local government information and tools, and better feedback mechanisms and participation in decision-making processes.

·         WSIS Action line 11 on “International and regional cooperation beyond 2025” addresses sharing experiences on data-driven decision making, as well as stimulating innovation and developing new ICT solutions for urban development.

Sustainable Development Goals
  • Goal 8 logo Goal 8: Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all
  • Goal 11 logo Goal 11: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
  • Goal 13 logo Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
  • Goal 17 logo Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development

The panel discussion offers the possibility of harnessing digital technologies for the localization of SDGs and addressing the global challenges of a twin transition to build sustainable smart cities.

GDC Objectives
  • Objective 1: Close all digital divides and accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals
  • Objective 5: Enhance international governance of artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity