A Healthy Social and Urban Way of Life is Possible

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nezire Özgece, a faculty member at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Design, and Architecture at Cyprus International University (CIU), expressed that World Urbanism Day, celebrated on November 8th, provides an important platform to discuss the global and local issues faced by the field of urbanism, new trends, and possibilities for the future. Özgece stated, “This year’s theme ‘With Planning We Can!’ reminds us of the vital role of planning in strengthening communities and building sustainable, equitable, and resilient communities.” She added, “This theme also emphasizes how collaborative planning is crucial in overcoming global social, economic, and environmental challenges; producing housing, infrastructure, climate solutions, and healthier living conditions for everyone.”
Özgece continued, “This year’s 49th Colloquium of the Chamber of City Planners (TMMOB) focuses on the theme ‘On the Verge of Change,’ addressing the transformation in planning actors, planning practices, and the innovations in planning methods and tools.” She emphasized that the theme underlines the fact that change in cities is not only spatial but also has a social dimension.
“Change, like in every field, is inevitable in urbanism,” Özgece said. “The important thing is to correctly read the necessities of this change and determine its direction in line with societal benefit.” She pointed out that urban practices, as a reflection of societal, environmental, and cultural transformation processes, could highlight inequalities on a spatial scale. “At this point, the fundamental principle of urbanism, public benefit, should be the primary guide in managing change,” she remarked. Özgece also noted that not only urbanization dynamics but also rapidly developing digital technologies are fundamentally transforming urban practices.
Emphasizing that the theme of being ‘on the verge of change’ is a critical reminder for Cyprus as well, Özgece stated, “Today, uncontrolled construction, the loss of public space, and ecological and cultural insensitivity in Cyprus cities concretely demonstrate situations where change is being misdirected.” She concluded, “However, when change is properly directed, it carries the potential to build a more just, livable, and sustainable urban future.” “In this process, the field of urbanism should guide the change with a planning approach based on public benefit, scientific foundations, and participatory methods, shaping it around social equality, environmental sensitivity, and spatial justice. We can create a healthy social and urban way of life through planning!” she said.