The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has said the transition to smart and inclusive cities requires a multi-faceted approach that leverages digital technologies and prioritises social inclusion and equitable development.

The UN body stated this in its report titled: “Monitoring smart inclusive transitions for an equitable urban future, using global urban monitoring framework’’. The report highlighted that by adopting the Global Urban Monitoring Framework developed by UN-Habitat, cities can holistically track their progress towards becoming more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive.

It stressed that the international guidelines on people-centred smart cities under preparation by UN-Habitat following a request from 193 countries at the second session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly, will offer a strong foundation for national and local governments.

In a foreword to the report by the Director of external relations, strategy, knowledge and innovation division, UN-Habitat, Dr Eldam Yemeru, she noted that through a people-centred approach to smart city development, cities could empower underserved, communities, promote social mobility, and ensure the benefits of smart city initiatives are equitably distributed.

Smart cities are more than just technology; they’re about people, equity, and inclusion. The Global Urban Monitoring Framework ensures fair access to services and supports sustainable development.

The study further revealed that smart and inclusive urban transitions could reshape the future by prioritising inclusivity, ensuring everyone- regardless of income, age, or ability, benefits from urban innovation.

The report disclosed that through resilient growth, cities could tackle climate challenges and improve quality of life through smart transition monitoring while tracking outcomes fosters accountability, making cities more responsive and equitable.

However, transitioning cities to become truly smart and inclusive requires a people-centred approach that goes beyond the mere adoption of technological solutions. To be inclusive, digital technology applications must empower all citizens to benefit from the opportunities,” the report said.

According to the study, the integration of a people-centred approach can play a transformative role in many cities as they strive to become more inclusive smart cities.

It also said by providing access to digital skills and knowledge, technologies can help empower underserved communities, promote social mobility, and ensure that the benefits of smart city initiatives are equitably distributed.

“Similarly, digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things, can play a pivotal role in enhancing urban resilience and enabling cities to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

“The dissemination of smart technologies can strengthen urban resilience by improving the monitoring and response to disaster risks, optimising resource management and enabling more efficient and sustainable service delivery.

“By leveraging digital innovation, cities can better mitigate the effects of extreme events, ensure the continuity of vital functions, and enhance the overall resilience of urban systems. An equitable urban future will depend on the smart and inclusive transition of cities,” UN-Habitat added.