Instead of the originally planned in-person summit in Milan, a panel of Global Mayors convened online to contemplate the lessons gleaned from their pandemic responses and advocate for the integral role of culture in urban recovery.

Cities grappled with the unprecedented challenge of rebounding from the pandemic’s repercussions. The pivotal question arises: how will culture contribute to this recovery, invigorating the economy around the clock and serving as a source of inspiration, entertainment, and unity for people?

Throughout the crisis, we observed people turning to culture as a means of connection during periods of isolation. While culture is inherent in the DNA of our world cities, the onslaught of COVID-19 posed a significant threat, deeply impacting this vital aspect of urban life.

Speakers inlcuded:  

• Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London 
• Horacio Rodríguez Larreta, Mayor of Buenos Aires 
• Anna König Jerlmyr, Mayor of Stockholm 
• Rafał Trzaskowski, Mayor of Warsaw 

Images Courtesy © World Cities Culture Forum / Greater London Authority / Getty/Canva