In the face of escalating climate change, resource depletion, and the unchecked growth of megacities, the PAGUS International Scientific Network, in collaboration with the International Association of Social Quality (IASQ), has launched a bold initiative to address the urgent need for a paradigm shift in urban governance. The comprehensive effort is encapsulated in a document that advocates for a rethinking of urbanization to promote sustainability, equity, and resilience. Below a personal letter from Paolo Motta and the manifesto in PDF:
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Dear Friend,
I contact you as know your engagement on urban development and climate change issues.
It is confirmed that the urbanization negative trend and impacts are still underestimated and neglected by most of the international agencies, forums and conferences, so we believe is now absolutely necessary spread awareness on the urgent need of urban/rural rebalance and territorial integration, as much as possible, not only within academia, where we just dialogue among us!!
Therefore, on the basis of a previous proposal to the UE-Horizon/COST program, called “PAGUS-Program Alternative Governance of Urban Settlements”, that was focused on these issues, we prepared the here annexed draft manifesto.
All of us coincide on the urgent need of a paradigm shift and a new approach oriented to overall wellness and sustainable territorial development, taking in account societal and environmental values.
I want to share it with you colleagues as in the past we discussed similar concepts and vision, remembering your interest and engagement.
We registered and now implementing the “PAGUSInitiative.net” web-site with the aim to set up a specific platform where collect and discuss all the urban/rural related topics.
Hoping to receive your adhesion, I submit you a draft Manifesto, that in this preliminary phase still not entering in details, to facilitate the largest share and support, I invite you to share it and add your name among the signatories.
If you agree then register with your mail, full name and affiliation on the CONTACTS page to participate this initiative.
Paolo Motta
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A Call to Action for the UN Pact for the Future
This manifesto presents an in-depth analysis of current urbanization trends and their consequences. It critiques the uncontrolled growth of megacities and highlights the urgent need for balanced territorial development that prioritizes environmental protection, social cohesion, and equitable resource distribution. The document also critiques the current frameworks of the UN’s Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), calling for a more integrated and people-centric approach to urban planning. The manifesto outlines actionable strategies to mitigate the impact of urban migration, revitalize smaller settlements, and promote sustainable living.
A Collaborative Effort for Change
The PAGUS initiative builds on decades of research and collaboration among international experts, academics, and organizations. It calls on governments, international bodies, and communities to rethink urban paradigms and adopt innovative, sustainable strategies to address global challenges.
Download the Manifestos
To learn more about this transformative initiative, download the PDFs of both manifestos:
A Call to Action for the UN Pact for the Future
Join us in supporting this vital movement to redefine urbanization and create a sustainable future for generations to come!