The webinar, organized in collaboration between UN-Habitat and UCLG-MEWA, took place on February 6, 2025, via an online platform. It was designed for cities and municipalities in the MEWA Region. During the event, presentations by pilot cities were given, sharing experiences regarding the implementation of the Quality of Life Index, the challenges encountered, and the successes achieved. Additionally, an interactive Q&A session facilitated discussions on how the initiative can be integrated into local policies and practices.
The rapidly changing dynamics of our world have necessitated a redefinition of what constitutes a “good life.” In this context, the need for data and analyses to help local leaders accurately determine their communities’ priorities and enhance their quality of life has grown increasingly important.
Launched in 2022 under the auspices of the Quality of Life Program Center in Saudi Arabia and implemented by UN-Habitat, the Quality of Life Initiative was introduced to identify urban priorities and harmonize local and global development agendas. With innovative data solutions offering local managers the tools to improve their communities, the initiative has been implemented in 30 cities worldwide, with another 16 cities in the process of joining the program.
The program was moderated by International Relations Coordinator Dr. Reem Abusamra, while key presentations were delivered by UCLG-MEWA Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman, Policy Officer Yehia Ibrahim, and Agata Krause from UN-Habitat. Additionally, UN-Habitat’s Urban Planning and Knowledge Management expert Yasmeen Alawamleh shared her experiences.
The webinar served as an important platform for cities in the MEWA Region to develop strategies to enhance their quality of life and benefit from international best practices. Through the presentations and interactive discussions, participants gained new perspectives on how to elevate the living standards in their own cities.
The event was remembered as a significant step supporting the implementation of concrete measures to guide local development policies.