The Cities Challenge, implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), aimed to showcase and support examples for climate-friendly, inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities. Through an ideas competition, each of the two phases (2019–2021 and 2021–2023) identified four urban “living labs” in a total of eight partner countries and supported each with €100,000. With innovative approaches, the initiative improved resilience and quality of life for vulnerable groups, ensured access to public services, and promoted sustainable and integrated urban development.

In line with its core area strategy of “Responsibility for our planet – climate and energy”, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) fosters an integrated approach to sustainable urban development. This involves close operation with urban stakeholders, including members of civil society, the private sector, and the scientific community. The aim is to leverage the potential of cities to play a major role in global climate and environmental action, contribute to sustainable development, maintain biodiversity, promote gender equality and inclusion, and reduce social and economic inequalities.  Click to Read