Report on the 2nd International Conference on Learning Cities just published

The Report on the 2nd International Conference on Learning Cities (ICLC), which took place from 28 to 30 September 2015 in Mexico City, has just been published. The Report details the proceedings and outcomes of the 2nd ICLC, which brought together over 650 participants from 95 countries to define the role of learning cities in shaping the Sustainable Development Agenda.

The Report provides information on how to develop sustainable learning cities, strengthen partnerships and networks, and implement the Key Features of Learning Cities. It also shares insights into how learning cities can foster global citizenship and environmental stewardship, contribute to health and well-being, and stimulate inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The Report also highlights regional developments on learning cities and contains key documents that were developed during the Conference.

Contents of the Report on the 2^nd International Conference on Learning Cities in a nutshell:

(1) The Mexico City Statement on Sustainable Learning Cities

The Mexico City Statement on Sustainable Learning Cities outlines the role of learning cities in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and defines strategic directions and action points for building sustainable learning cities.

(2) Membership of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities

Details are provided on how cities around the world that are committed to lifelong learning can apply for membership of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, which is facilitated by the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning.

(3) The UNESCO Learning City Award

Members of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities can apply for the biennial UNESCO Learning City Award. The UNESCO Learning City Award will be conferred on cities that have shown outstanding progress in implementing the Guiding Documents of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. The UNESCO Learning City Award 2017 will open to applications in mid-April 2016.

(4) Guidelines for Building Learning Cities

In 2015, UIL published a collection of case studies showcasing twelve cities’ efforts to improve people’s quality of life through lifelong learning. The publication, Unlocking the Potential of Urban Communities: Case Studies of Twelve Learning Cities, was launched during the Conference and provided a base for the development of the Guidelines for Building Learning Cities. The twelve cities featured were awarded the UNESCO Learning City Award 2015.

(5) 3 x 3 x 3 x 3 Youth Statement on Learning Cities

The 3 x 3 x 3 x 3 Youth Statement on Learning Cities outlines the ways in which young people should be involved in building learning cities. The Statement comprises three calls for action directed at UNESCO, three expressions of encouragement directed at local and national governments, and three commitments from youth to contribute to the building of learning cities.