Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Urban-Rural Linkages for Sustainable Development

Urban-Rural Linkages 8 June 2023

Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Urban-Rural Linkages for Sustainable Development

Urban-Rural Linkages for Sustainability:

Requires collaborative efforts and careful planning to achieve balanced growth.

Challenges of Rapid Urban Expansion:

Poses challenges like rural abandonment and environmental issues, but innovation and strategic measures can revitalize rural areas.

NAIROBI, KENYA, 7TH JUNE 2023

In March 2023, an Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on recovering territorial balance by strengthening urban-rural linkages took place in Mérida, Spain resulting in a Communique The communiqué called for a global partnership among regional governments to advance the strengthening of urban-rural linkages. Building upon the outcomes of the EGM, a side event was organized during the United Nations Habitat Assembly to further the discussion on this critical topic. Representatives from various UN agencies, including UN-HABITAT, the Food and Agriculture Organization, (FAO), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), along with other varied stakeholders, convened to emphasize the importance of urban-rural linkages and explore collaborative approaches for sustainable development.

Mr. Remy Sietchiping, Chief of Policy,Legislation and Governance Section at UN-Habitat made opening remarks, acknowledging the remarkable efforts of Member States and their regional authorities in localizing resolutions on urban-rural linkages. The collaborative spirit among UN agencies, including FAO and UNEP, and other stakeholders showcased the shared commitment to advancing the urban-rural linkages agenda.

As the panel discussions commenced, the speakers delved into the complexities of urbanization and the resultant impact on urban and rural areas. Ms. Eulalia Moreno, General Director of Urbanism and Territorial Planning and Counselor of Agriculture, Rural Development, Population and Territory, Extremadura, Spain highlighted the challenges posed by rapid urban expansion, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and management strategies to ensure a balanced and sustainable development of human settlements. Ms. Mirey Atallah, Head of Nature for Climate Branch at UNEP, then followed, emphasizing the need to strengthen urban-rural linkages due to their interdependent nature. Bringing the environmental perspective to the discussion she raised concerns about issues such as desertification, the abandonment of rural areas, and the regression of basic services. She also highlighted the potential for revitalizing rural areas through innovation, such as off-grid renewable energy and efficient wastewater treatment plants. The discussion sparked thoughtful conversations on the role of intermediary cities and rural areas in fostering connectivity and infrastructure growth.

Outcomes of the EGM – recovering territorial balance by strengthening urban-rural linkages

Ms. Rebeccah Wanjiru, Urban Food System Expert at FAO shed light on the profound interdependence between urban and rural areas in the food system. Her sentiments also reiterated innovation as the previous speaker, stressing the need to safeguard the productive capacities of rural regions while promoting innovation within urban spaces. She added that FAO’s comprehensive strategy, the Framework for Urban Food Agenda, aims to strengthen urban-rural linkages and ensure long-term food security and sustainable development.

Mr. Ignacio De La Puerta, Director of Territorial Planning and Urban Agenda, Basque Country Regional Government, Spain, shared the Basque Country’s experience in addressing the challenges faced by rural areas. Measures such as land reclamation methods have been implemented to revitalize agricultural productivity and generate employment opportunities in rural regions. On his part, Mr. Albert Lladó Romer, Policy Officer at United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) emphasized the critical role of intermediary cities as converging points for urban and rural areas. The importance of partnerships at both the technical and political levels was highlighted, along with the establishment of a global observatory of sustainable proximities to promote equitable access to services.

Throughout the discussions, participants engaged with questions, reactions to the several interesting perspectives, and general observations on the topic of the day. Ms. Nela Saborit Director General for Urban Agenda and Urban Renewal, Catalonia Regional Government, Spain, stressed the need for a balanced approach between urban and rural areas, while Inés Sánchez de Madariaga, Professor, Polytechnic University of Madrid, and Chair of Advisory Group on Gender Issues (AGGI) to the Executive Director or UN-Habitat, highlighted the economic challenges faced by rural areas due to urban expansion. Strong emphasis was also placed on the crucial role of gender equality in strengthening urban-rural linkages and supporting women in rural economies.

The session concluded with a call to action, urging participants to join the upcoming UN Food System Summit and the SDG summit to further advocate for stronger, multi-stakeholder partnerships and the integration of urban-rural linkages into sustainable development efforts. The discussions and reactions showcased the growing recognition of the need to strengthen urban-rural linkages for sustainable development. Through collaboration, innovation, and inclusive approaches , a global partnership can be established to foster resilience, equitable access to services, and the preservation of ecosystems. As we move forward in this urban-rural linkage agenda, it remains imperative to continue the dialogue and engage in concerted efforts to create a future where urban and rural areas thrive in harmony, benefiting both people and the planet.

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