Digital Solutions for Participatory Governance in Smart Cities

Dear Colleagues,

In the rapidly evolving landscape of urban development, the symbiosis of technology and governance has become a defining feature of the modern city. Smart cities, characterized by the integration of digital technologies to optimize urban services, have emerged as crucibles of innovation. The aims of this Special Issue are to illuminate the myriad of ways in which digital innovations are reshaping urban governance paradigms and comprehensively explore the multifaceted landscape of "Digital Solutions for Participatory Governance in Smart Cities," encompassing diverse facets of technological interventions that impact urban governance positively. From harnessing the power of data analytics for informed decision making to deploying citizen-centric platforms for active participation, the contributions in this Special Issue will span a spectrum of interdisciplinary approaches. As cities worldwide embrace the ethos of smart urbanism, this collection of articles promises to unravel the transformative potential inherent in the intersection of digital solutions and participatory governance.

We extend a warm invitation to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to submit their innovative research, case studies, and perspectives that contribute to our understanding of the evolving landscape of participatory governance in smart cities. This Special Issue endeavours to serve as a comprehensive repository of cutting-edge insights, fostering a robust and inclusive dialogue on the convergence of digital solutions and governance in the urban context. The contributions in this Special Issue span a spectrum of interdisciplinary approaches.

1. Data-driven governance: Uncover the intricate ways in which data analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things contribute to more effective, responsive, and equitable urban governance structures.
2. Co-governance through citizen engagement platforms: Explore the design, implementation, and impact of digital platforms that empower citizens to actively co-participate in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of inclusivity, transparency, and social cohesion.
3. Urban mobility solutions: Investigate how digital technologies are redefining transportation systems, contributing to sustainable and efficient urban mobility. Examine the implications for participatory governance in shaping accessible and citizen-centric transport policies.
4. Environmental sustainability: Delve into the role of digital solutions in promoting environmental sustainability within smart cities. Explore how technologies can be leveraged to monitor, enact citizens’ behavioural change, and mitigate environmental impact while involving citizens in sustainable practices.
5. Health and well-being: Explore the intersection of digital health technologies and participatory governance. Analyse initiatives that utilize technology to enhance public health, facilitate healthcare access, and engage citizens in fostering community well-being.
6. Crisis Management and resilience: Examine the role of digital solutions in enhancing urban resilience and crisis management. Assess how smart city technologies can contribute to effective responses during emergencies and engage citizens in community resilience efforts.
7. Digital inclusion and equity: Investigate the challenges and opportunities related to digital inclusion in smart cities. Analyse strategies and technologies that promote equity, ensuring that the benefits of digital solutions are accessible to all segments of the urban population.
8. Cybersecurity and ethical considerations: Address the critical issues associated with the integration of digital solutions in governance, with a focus on safeguarding privacy, ensuring cybersecurity, and upholding ethical standards in the smart city context.

Dr. Kamran Soomro
Dr. Diego López-de-Ipiña
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• smart cities
• participatory governance
• data analytics
• smart governance
• smart mobility
• big data analytics
• data-driven governance
• digital technologies and innovations in smart cities