Good Planning and Good Governance: examples to implement the New Urban Agenda

Global Planners Network offers insights into the key role of planning in good governance. The 'Quito Implementation Plan for the New Urban Agenda (NUA)' states three priorities that lead to sustainable urbanization: a supportive governance structure; twenty-first century urban planning; and establishing sound financing mechanisms. This networking session will share specific ways planning increases transparency, improves government integration and creates a platform for public, private and NGO collaboration. Often a barrier to healthy and inclusive communities is social and political. This session will highlight experience engaging citizens and stakeholders in the planning process to tie good governance to the outcomes of planning and the NUA. Practical examples and cases will be used to highlight best practices.

The NUA is poised to improve quality of life for millions to enjoy the benefits of urbanization and inclusive development. While countries, cities and towns have experience with the technical aspects of clean water, safety from hazards, transportation choices and public facilities, often the barrier is social and political: lack of transparent governance, lack of legal structures, representation of the public, and disconnection from budget and finance. Planning uniquely embeds the technical aspects of place-making within a participatory framework to build social and political structures for governance. This is particularly important in tackling issues of social exclusion and cultural diversity and conflict occurring in many urban areas.

This session will inform and engage participants about elements of GPN's success using planning as a means to establish effective governance. Our session will highlight legal structures, organizational frameworks, ethical standards and examples of civic advocacy to achieve effective civic governance. Planners are in a unique position to both orchestrate and advocate for meaningful changes in governance. We will also highlight how planning regulations, incentives and budgeting can inform countries and communities that are just beginning to create civil society frameworks to manage urbanization.