The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated inequalities, discrimination and marginalisation in cities. In this webinar, ICCAR and the OECD Champion Mayors Initiative explored how cities are leading the way in fighting discrimination and exclusion in a post-COVID-19 world.
Deputy Mayor of Bristol (United Kingdom), Asher Craig explained Bristol’s ‘ONE City’ plan that brings together key partners across the city to tackle racism and prejudice, and offers proactive support to promote equality. In response to COVID-19, Cllr Craig emphasised the need for direct communication with the communities most impacted by the crisis, and the need to make Information Technology (IT) readily accessible and available to all.
Human Rights Commissioner of Vienna (Austria), Shams Asadi spoke about Vienna’s human rights-based approach and their measures for inclusion: the rights to information, housing, education, work, and bodily integrity. Ms Asadi said the pandemic had exposed the huge importance of trust between government and citizens, and discussed ways in which local leaders can boost inclusivity by addressing the needs of migrants.
Magnus Magnusson, from UNESCO, highlighted the frontline position of cities in responding to the crisis, and emphasised the value of cooperation and information exchange during times of crisis.
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Panelists