Cities Emerge as Global Development Hubs

More than half of the world’s population lives in cities, transforming them into dynamic hubs of business, skills, and financial flows. As expectations grow, urban areas are evolving beyond mere workplaces and residences, becoming centers of sustainable and inclusive development.
Key trends shaping modern cities include sustainability, quality employment that balances work and life, and fair distribution of resources, regardless of location. Digitization and smart technologies are rapidly enhancing urban life, enabling citizens to engage with city management and stay informed.
Professor Stanisław Mazur, Deputy Mayor of Kraków, emphasizes that cities must offer not only jobs and infrastructure but also green spaces, public comfort, and cultural opportunities. The future lies in "15-minute cities" – accessible, comfortable, and globally attractive places where life quality draws in talent from around the world. As cities transform, they increasingly compete to become global hubs in the modern interconnected world.