Working Group 8 on Guiding Principles and Frameworks for People-Centred Smart Cities in the AI Era
Co-leaders: Aline Matta (UN-Habitat) and Cristina Bueti (ITU)
This Working Group under the Thematic Group on Digital transformation for people-centred cities will provide guidance on innovative approaches and scalable tools to support cities in designing strategies and implementing digital, smart and AI-enabled solutions that place people at the centre of urban development. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from across sectors and disciplines, the Working Group will foster knowledge exchange, promote good practices and support the development of common approaches for inclusive, equitable and accessible urban transformation. The group will develop a People-Centred Smart Cities Toolbox to help cities harness emerging technologies, including AI, in ways that enhance quality of life, strengthen resilience and advance sustainable development for all.
The working group is expected to:
- Develop a toolbox that serves as a reference for urban planners and policymakers in designing smart city regulations, plans and strategies. The toolbox will ensure equitable access to data, digital infrastructure, and digital services, support life-long education and training for all people, and promote transparency and accountability in cities and human settlements.
- Ensure the document reflects the common vision of the UN system regarding the challenges and opportunities posed by technology and innovation for cities and citizens.
- Review the toolbox regularly to ensure it captures emerging challenges and opportunities and integrates lessons learned from practical implementation while remaining cognizant of the fast-evolving pace of technology and digital transformation.
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This Working Group holds regular e-meetings—join the sessions to stay engaged and contribute.
- 3 August 2026
- 3 September 2026
- 24 September 2026
- 16 September 2026
- 30 September 2026
- 15 October 2026
- 3 November 2026
For any query related to the thematic group, please contact us at u4ssc@itu.int.