Riga in change: This is how the city remains livable for young people!

Riga in change: This is how the city remains livable for young people!

Vöcklabruck, Österreich - Urban development is the focus of numerous discussions, and in particular the topic of sustainable urbanization is becoming increasingly important. While cities are trying to face the challenges of urbanization worldwide, many of them have already developed long -term strategies to improve the quality of life of their citizens.

Especially in Latvia, the emigration of young, well -trained people is an urgent problem. Since the EU accession in 2004, the country has lost around 20% of its population because many migrate to other EU countries, often looking for better career opportunities. Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States, is particularly suffering from this loss. Guntars Ruskul, the provisional director of the strategic management of Riga, speaks of the need to think innovatively and create incentives so that his citizens can stay inside or return to the city. Creative conversions of former buildings play a key role here. For example, the Occupy Me! Sticker-Kampagne created to make empty properties artistically and culturally usable.

The role of education and urban infrastructure

An essential factor for the attractiveness of cities is access to education and cultural offers. Citizens can benefit from numerous services, especially in urban regions. The influence of education on social cohesion and commitment cannot be assessed highly enough, and here it can be seen that cities that are strong in these areas are also better.

Nevertheless, urban development faces challenges, such as the settling and increasing area consumption, which, according to BNE-Portal, have a negative impact on the environment. Cities must take measures in order not only to be economically efficient, but also socially just and ecologically sustainable.

sustainable urban development as a future model

In order to meet these challenges, many cities rely on sustainable urban development that aims to reduce CO2 emissions and a better indoor climate. In Germany, for example, there is the “Future City” initiative, which promotes innovative ideas for improving urban life. The goals of the cities include the creation of green areas and the improvement of air quality.

It is obvious that modern urban development is not only an economic but also a social project. In order to master the balancing act between urban growth and quality of life, committed citizens are required: inside, creative ideas and targeted strategies. The common responsibility therefore lies with all actors - from the city administration to NGOs to the citizens: inside.

How cities like Riga will develop remains exciting. At a time when many cities are fighting with demographic challenges, the creative revival of vacancies and the focus on community and sustainability could be the key to a livable urban future.