Chapter summaries

Author: Prof Thomas Alexander Aleinikoff, Emmanuel Guerisoli, Leah Zamore

Abstract

The international refugee protection system is at a crossroads. Despite recent reforms, there has been little progress on meliorating an increasingly intolerable situation faced by the world's 120 million (and counting) forced migrants. What progress has occurred, meanwhile, is threatened at a time of mounting geopolitical conflagration, authoritarian backlash, global economic strife, and climate crisis. This has led many to the view that now is not the time for a major rethink of the system. A stalled arc of protection is preferable to one sent into reverse.

This chapter posits, contrariwise, that now is the time to discuss and debate what new systemic infrastructure—policies, institutions, social mobilizations—is needed to move us beyond status quo maintenance towards new strategies of protection, inclusion, and mobility. To that end, the chapter analyzes the normative and institutional trajectory of the refugee regime’s first seven decades; unpacks the current reform consensus; and proposes a set of ideas for transcending the existing system over time. The chapter ends by considering the role that cities could and should play in adapting the protection paradigm to the era of climate change

Keywords

Arc of protection; International refugee protection system reform; Necessary flight; Environmental mobility; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Mohamed Nasheed

Abstract

The article discusses the intrinsic link between human movement and the quest for freedom and self-determination. It explores the historical context of migration, emphasising its role in human history and the emergence of borders as societies sought to protect their territories. It advocates for a balanced approach to border management, highlighting the need for regulatory frameworks that facilitate rather than impede human mobility. It also examines the benefits and challenges of open borders, using examples like the Schengen Area and Dubai's structured openness as models. Additionally, the text addresses climate changeinduced displacement and human trafficking, emphasising the need for updated international legal frameworks and comprehensive policies to manage these issues effectively. The text concludes by advocating for inclusive, well-regulated border policies that promote global interconnectedness and sustainable development.

Keywords

Human migration; Border management; Open borders; Dubai's structured openness; Climate change; Climate change-induced displacement; Human trafficking; International legal frameworks; Sustainable development; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Parag Khanna

Abstract

We are in the early phases of an epochal shift in the organization of global civilization driven by global megatrends such as urbanization and climate change. These forces call for nothing less than a global strategy to reprogram the geography of civilization towards sustainable urban habitats in climate-resilient locations. Executing on this new vision requires reconciling our terribly misaligned natural, political, functional and human geographies. As the world population plateaus and eventually declines while climate volatility accelerates, the global cities that have anchored the world economy in decades past will gradually be supplemented or displaced by a new archipelago of networked civilizational centers. This chapter identifies a number of these future hubs across most regions of the world and highlights the attributes that may make them successful destinations for climate migrants such as their infrastructure quality, open and tolerant culture, and other attributes. We should exercise our powers of foresight today to anticipate the optimal locations for these sustainable habitats that will be the essential home for the more mobile world population of tomorrow.

Keywords

Demographics; Migration; Climate; Cities; Geography; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Rev. Prof. Dr. Marek Urban

Abstract

The philosophical idea of the state encompasses various dimensions, including its role in human development, symbolic significance, and impact on individuals and societies. The concept of the state originated from the Greek polis, initially understood as a citadel, and with time evolved into an integral part of the state as a centre of culture, economy, politics, and social life, making it pivotal in understanding the historical development of societies. A general definition of the state highlights the necessity of a legal organisation within a particular community. The state establishes a rational structure of legitimate entitlements that are publicly recognised and guaranteed by the power of authority, ensuring that all individuals, without exception, can exercise their freedom safely and justly.

Keywords

City; idea; State; Democracy; Polis; Community; Freedom; Equality; History; Free Global

Cities; Free Global City

Author: Michael Møller

Abstract

Since the mid-20th century, cities have become central to economic growth and sustainable development, now housing over half the world's population, a figure expected to reach 68% by 2050. This shift places cities at the forefront of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, enhancing their economic, political, and cultural roles. City leaders are increasingly influential, often surpassing national leaders in addressing local needs and global challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and social justice. Historically significant in politics, cities are now resurging, forming networks like the SDG Cities Network and C40 Cities to tackle global issues collaboratively. As urbanisation continues, cities face complex challenges, including migration and climate change, necessitating coordinated global efforts. Technology will transform urban governance, requiring new paradigms for managing digitalage complexities. Ultimately, cities will play a vital role in public governance and sustainable development, driving innovation and resilience.

Keywords

Cities; Economic growth; Sustainable development; Urbanisation; United Nations 2030 Agenda; City governance; Global challenges; Climate change; Economic inequality; Social justice; Urban networks; International affairs; SDG Cities Network; C40 Cities; Migration; Technology; Urban governance; Digital age; Resilience; Innovation; Free Global Cities; Free Global City; Sustainable Cities

Author: Simon Anholt

Abstract

In this chapter Simon Anholt discusses the moral imperative and practical necessity of addressing migration and other global challenges through collaborative and innovative governance. He argues that migration, unlike other global issues, can be a positive opportunity if approached correctly. Anholt emphasizes the need for a shift from competitive to collaborative governance at both national and city levels. He explains the concept of the "Dual Mandate," where leaders are responsible for both their citizens and the global community. Anholt highlights the importance of global cities and the Good Country Index, which measures countries' contributions to humanity and the planet. He also explores the potential of a new Good City Index and the role of cities in fostering global cooperation and sustainability. Anholt concludes by discussing the idea of creating new citystates as havens for migrants and Natural Cosmopolitans, those who see themselves as global citizens first. He underscores the necessity of building inclusive, globally engaged communities to address the challenges of our interconnected world effectively. The chapter serves as a call to action for a new approach to governance that balances local and global responsibilities to ensure a sustainable and equitable future.

Keywords

Migration; Dual Mandate; Good Country Index; Global Cities; Collaborative Governance; Natural Cosmopolitans; Sustainability; City-State; Global Cooperation; Innovative Policy; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Armen Sarkissian

Abstract

If there is an overwhelming priority or a paramount preoccupation common to all small states, including small city states, it is survival. The world has never been structured to facilitate the survival of small states, and treating small states as disposable has been the norm through most of recent history. Survival, therefore, has largely depended on the will and skill of small states themselves. To preserve themselves, small states must be agile, adaptable, and adroit. Internally, as Aristotle said of the city-states in the 3rd BC, they must train their populations to be “jacksof-all-trades”. Externally, they must exert themselves to mobilise an international order reinforced by institutions and equipped with the means to uphold its rules. In short, small states must also be smart states. In international relations, there are three kinds of power: hard power, which involves coercion; soft power, which flows from a nation’s cultural output; and what one can call “smart power”, which amalgamates components of hard and soft power, but also, crucially, makes an effort to bolster itself by leveraging technology intelligently. Unlike conventional approaches, smart power actively embraces and harnesses emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, aiming not only to adapt but also to derive significant advantages from these innovations. The essence of smart power lies in its ability to synergise traditional sources of influence with cutting-edge technologies, positioning itself strategically to navigate and capitalise on the ever-evolving landscape of power dynamics.

Keywords

Small states; S20; Soft power; Hard power; Smart power; Club of small states ; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Günter Nooke

Abstract

The chapter "Cities, Not Camps" emphasizes the importance of new cities as an alternative way to provide people with prospects and opportunities for their own development. Instead of confining migrants who are willing and able to work in camps and feeding them from the outside, it emphasizes the endogenous growth forces in new, self-contained settlements if the security of people and investments can be guaranteed. The chapter describes the complex challenges that Europe and Germany face due to their own legal foundations, especially because migrant workers are treated in the same way as politically persecuted people seeking asylum. On the one hand, reference is made to successful city foundations in history, to their prerequisites, special drivers of progress and innovation. On the other hand, it shows why and under what circumstances new cities could be a meaningful solution to the problem of mass migration today. The chapter describes five different city models and uses six parameters for comparison to assess their respective performance in a diamond diagram.”

Keywords

Planned cities; New cities; camps; Levites, Magdeburg Law; Endogenous growth; Economic development; Asylum seekers; Migrant workers; Migration; Uncontrolled immigration; Schengen Area; Geneva Refugee Convention; Germany; German citizenship; UN; EU; UNHCR; Angela Merkel; Paul Romer; Income opportunities; Repatriation; FDI; Western democracies; Special economic zones; Affordable housing; Sustainable development zones; Extraterritoriality; Free private cities; Charter cities; Urban concepts; Classification; Comparison; Parameters of comparison; Western Sahara; New Gaz City; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Titus Gebel

Abstract

In 2022 the number of displaced people around the world reached 100 million for the first time. While migration policy has been in the spotlight of the public debate in Western countries this humanitarian crisis also strongly affects poor and middle-income countries. 90 per cent of Syrian refugees remain in Syria or among neighbouring countries. Africa hosts almost one-third of the global refugee population. The concept of Free Private Cities is not only a peaceful and voluntary alternative to the political status quo of current political systems, where the actions of both rulers and the governed are shaped by wrong incentives. It is also a solution to solve the humanitarian crisis at its roots by providing entrepreneurial alternatives for refugees close to crisis countries, and by preventing migration in the first place by offering economic perspectives in Free Private Cities to allow for economic development and prosperity.

Keywords

Free Private Cities; Private Governance; Special Economic Zones; International Cities; Democracy; Social Contract; Taxation; Regulation; Market of Living Together; Competitive Governance; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Michael Castle-Miller

Abstract

This chapter explores the concept of Inclusive Development Zones (IDZs) as a tool for integrating migrants and low-income members of host communities into the formal economy. IDZs represent a new type of special economic zone designed to reduce regulatory barriers that contribute to the growth of informal settlements and economies— such as work permits, identification requirements, business registration, and zoning and building regulations. Drawing upon urban planning and economic theory, as well as real-life case studies, this chapter presents a workable governance structure and business model for an IDZ. Within an IDZ, residents would be empowered to build and own their homes and businesses within a framework of new supporting regulations, infrastructure, and services. Under this model, IDZs would be financially self-sustaining and an effective means of enabling migrants and informal settlers to become self-sufficient and contribute more to the economies around them.

Keywords

Inclusive Development Zones; Informal Settlements; Informal Economies; Land Value Capture; Land Tenure; Special Economic Zones; Global Migration; Refugees; Institutional Design; Economic Development; Urban Planning; Human Rights; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Dr. Luca S. D’Acci

Abstract

Isobenefit Urbanism would be used to create the first Free Global Isobenefit City which will be a walkable green settlement, regardless its growth, dimension, shape and density. After a brief definition of its 10 main points, a draft Isobenefit City plan is shown.

Keywords

Green City; Isobenefit City; Future City; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Dr. Eckart Würzner

Abstract

Cities shape the future. It is the place where 70% of the world’s population will live by 2050. It is where global challenges like climate change are most tangible. It is where political leaders have the highest accountability since they meet their constituents on a day-to-day basis – be it at the market or on a Sunday morning in the bakery. Having been mayor of Heidelberg, Germany, for more than 17 years, I know of the manifold challenges modern cities face. In this article, I outline how we have been tackling them in Heidelberg and what we do to make our city futureproof – given the special legal framework in which German municipalities can operate. By focusing on climate change, social issues and innovative strength, we have been named Germany’s most sustainable city in 2023.

Keywords

Sustainability; Local governments; Innovation; Innovative strength; Social issues; Public administration; International; Germany; Municipality; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Dr. Michael Esfeld

Abstract

This chapter seeks to fulfil four tasks: (1) In the first place, it sets out a characterization of the rule of law. Being a normative constraint against which political systems can be evaluated, the rule of law cannot be based on positive law. It has to be grounded in natural law. (2) Secondly, the chapter sketches out how this can be done for a global city that is an open society: the rule of law can thus not be based on a particular religion, culture, or system of ethical beliefs. It has to be justified by relying on universal reason alone that is common to all human beings, whatever their cultural differences may otherwise be. (3) Thirdly, the chapter explains the relationship between the rule of law and the modern constitutional state, working out the tension that arises when the state claims the monopoly of law making, law enforcement and judiciary. (4) Fourthly, the chapter pleads for pluralism when it comes to realizing the rule of law, taking common law as model.

Keywords

Common law; Constitutional state; Freedom; Kant; Natural law; Normativity; Open society; Rule of law; Universal reason; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Andreas Baumgartner, Mr. Mark Beer

Abstract

Dispute resolution plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law, protecting rights, resolving conflicts, and maintaining social order and stability. It is also a major factor in attracting and retaining investment. Yet, as the adage goes, “prevention is better than cure”, ecosystems focused on dispute avoidance rather than just resolution actually create more harmonious societies. Getting both dispute avoidance and resolution right will be an essential success factor for Free Global Cities.

After looking at the evolution of dispute resolution over time, this contribution sets out and compares the nature, advantages and challenges of judicial dispute resolution (JDR) versus alternative dispute resolution (ADR), usually including arbitration, conciliation and mediation. It also looks at the International Framework of Court Excellence (IFCE), which could become an important reference point for Free Global Cities. Looking beyond past and present, this contribution presents dispute resolution mega-trends, with not only ADR but also JDR as technology-enhanced customer services. This will have major impact on any future dispute ecosystems that are to be set up, e.g., for Free Global Cities.

Finally, potential implications for Free Global Cities are drawn, based both on past and current experiences as well as future trends.

Keywords

Dispute Resolution; Courts; Arbitration; Conciliation; Mediation; Judicial Dispute Resolution; JDR; Alternative Dispute Resolution; ADR; Rule of Law; Dispute Avoidance; International Framework of Court Excellence; IFCE; Dispute Resolution Mega-Trends; Customer Service; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Dr. Dimitry V. Kochenov

Abstract

Following the explanation of the racialized mechanics of the ‘standards of civilization’ underpinning the global passport apartheid, this chapter delves into the punishing role that citizenship is there to play for its victims. It thus prepares the ground for an informed charter cities discussion. Instead of addressing the dire consequences of the inequitable citizenship apartheid for the victims of citizenship in the global south, the idea of building separate cities for a minuscule selection of such people somewhere on the land of the under-developed spaces of no opportunity makes the situation worse, as it amplifies the citizenship apartheid. The idea underpinning such fee-paying reservations is a direct continuation of the purported ‘natural order of things’, which the global passport apartheid is there to instill and uphold. Instead of remedying the rightless situation of the racialized victims of citizenship, for whom the blood-based nationality status is a liability, the newly-proposed fee-paying reservations for the passport poor fully embrace the racist paradigm that those branded as non-civilized in the inter-bellum international law and whom the global passport apartheid is designed to bring down, should stay in their non-civilized spaces, no matter how more privileged the conditions in the special reservations over there, which their money could buy.

Keywords

Citizenship; Apartheid; Reservations; Human zoo; Segregation; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Christian H. Kälin

Abstract

The chapter examines the limitations of traditional state-centric models of governance and the challenges faced in ensuring adequate human rights protection. It introduces Free Global Cities as autonomous, self-governed entities offering a safe haven for individuals seeking refuge and a better quality of life. The chapter proposes a new model of citizenship based on contractual agreements between individuals and the city-state, providing greater protection and enforcement of rights. A postmodern framework for global human rights is outlined, grounded in the Golden Rule and focusing on individual liberties and capabilities. The chapter highlights the potential benefits of Free Global Cities, including economic prosperity, security, and the protection of human rights for both residents and host nations. Aligned with the UN's 2030 Agenda, these cities offer a viable solution to the challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change, geopolitical instability, mass migration, and the erosion of democratic values, as well as addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and social justice.

Keywords

Citizenship; Human rights; Autonomous cities; Rule of law; Global human rights framework; Stateless persons; Golden Rule; Mass migration; Refugee resettlement; Sustainable development; Economic prosperity; Contractual agreements; Self-determination; Social justice; Humanitarian crisis; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Mr. Mikael Ribbenvik Cassar

Abstract

This article addresses the key challenges in managing a migration system for a Global Free City. How can a new jurisdiction handle migration pressure without getting overwhelmed and which would the key elements be in a tabula rasa migration system? Without the constraints of preconceived or traditional ideas on migration systems the article lay out a framework of ten points on how to create a clean slate system. The article covers a processbased approach ranging from access to procedure, eligibility, and selection at the start, through the principals of family unity and reunification and to questions of return or citizenship at the end. All while creating a system that I sustainable over time and variations. It is clear that even a jurisdiction built on the base of migration is in need of a regulatory framework and that such a framework should be free from the conventions and regulations that so far has governed the field.

Keywords

Migration; Citizenship; Asylum; Refugee; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Mr. Andrej Majcen

Abstract

This chapter summarizes how blockchain technology could support the implementation of self-governed cities, while simultaneously contributing to a solution for the global migration crisis, by enabling displaced people as economic actors and integrating them into a modern financial ecosystem.

Keywords

APR - Annual Percentage Rate; BTC – Bitcoin; ETH – Ethereum; EURC- EUR Coin (stablecoin issued by Circle); Dapps - Decentralized Applications; DeFi - Decentralized Finance; DEX - Decentralized Exchange; DID - Decentralized Identity; GDP - Gross Domestic Product; LDC - Lowest Developed Countries; LP - Liquidity Provider; USD - United States Dollar; USDC - USD Coin (stablecoin issued by Circle); VCs - Verifiable Credentials; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Petros Arvanitis

Abstract

The "Planning and Financing of Railway and Public Transit Systems in Free Global City" chapter outlines the intricate process of developing an urban railway network in the Free Global City, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and economic development. This chapter details the phases and steps involved in the project, from pre-planning to implementation, focusing on community engagement, accessibility, affordability, and social inclusion. Moreover, it highlights the importance of establishing sustainable funding acquisition strategies tailored to the city's unique socio-economic landscape. The integration of sustainability into every aspect of the urban railway network planning and implementation process is emphasized to promote environmental stewardship, equitable development, and social cohesion. The chapter also underscores the need for a comprehensive approach that considers diverse needs, cultural sensitivities, and economic impacts while discussing the integration with complementary transportation systems.

The ultimate vision is to create a high-quality, transformative, inclusive, and sustainable urban mobility system that uplifts the community’s quality of life, promotes social equity, provides equitable access to essential services, and fosters sustainable development within Free Global City.

Keywords

Urban Railway Network; Inclusivity; Social Equity; Sustainability; Accessibility; Sustainable Funding Acquisition; Equitable Economic Development; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Paul Vogt

Abstract

The healthcare system should be equitable, functional and efficient. It should be ethical and correspond to our understanding of good quality. Primacy in the healthcare system is given to medical services provided for the benefit of patients. The current confusion regarding the future strategy of many modern health care systems is based on fundamental, blatant misinterpretations by politicians, business, doctors and the society as a whole. But mistakes can be instructive and helpful in developing a sound and well-functioning health care system in a Free Global City.

Keywords

Health Care System; Ethical Standards; Distribution of Resources; Insurance Companies; Personal Responsibility; MedTech Industry; Medical Profession and Excellence; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Benno Büeler

Abstract

Today, traditional housing comes with high cost, high material usage, and a big ecological and carbon footprint. To build large scale migrant settlements or Free Global Cities fast, in high quality but at low cost, new approaches need to be considered. This chapter analyses the current situation, looks at the underlying mid-term trends in the construction industry, and finally presents Citra as an example of how the goal of sustainable and efficient housing construction could simultaneously be achieved. Core of the solution includes on the one hand the application of efficient composite materials which minimise the required material input while maximising usability, and on the other hand the application of mobile factory production methods which minimise manual work and cost, while maximising quality and speed. The mobile factory is also in line with having very high productivity for a certain period of time, but then moving it on to other places once no more needed in a given project. A typical side aspect of migrant settlements or Free Global Cities is location remoteness and harsh climate conditions, because pleasant places which are well connected to roads and railways are typically already occupied. Efficient construction should therefore require less transportation, but offer good thermal insulation. The solution proposed in this chapter meets these requirements very well.

Keywords

Affordable housing; Green building; Low CO2 emission; Mobile factory like production; Efficient construction; Advanced construction technology; Mass housing; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Samih Sawiris

Abstract

In the era of modern urbanisation, large residential developments have transcended architectural and infrastructural ambitions to embody a comprehensive vision for the future of urban living. These expansive projects are designed to foster self-sustaining communities, integrating residential, workspace, recreational, and essential services to enhance the quality of urban life. Our journey has redefined gated communities into fully-integrated towns across the globe, from the Red Sea to the Swiss Alps. Projects like El Gouna and Andermatt Swiss Alps demonstrate the transformative potential of holistic urban development, emphasising sustainability, economic growth, and social inclusivity. Addressing challenges such as regulatory complexities, crisis management, and sustainability is critical. The vision extends to initiatives like Free Global Cities, autonomous, self-governed entities which represent an innovative solutions for refugees and migrants, aiming to create inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant communities.

Keywords

Modern urbanization; Large residential developments; Self-sustaining communities; Holistic urban development; Sustainability; Economic growth; Social inclusivity; Free Global Cities; Transformative potential; Regulatory challenges; Crisis management; Free Global City

Author: Dr. Götz Ruprecht

Abstract

A modern energy supply must be low-emission, reliable and affordable. Nuclear power is the energy source that best meets these requirements today. But nuclear power could do even better if we could fully exploit the unique energy density of uranium fuel, which contains millions of times more energy than fossil fuels. New reactor designs could soon achieve this goal, providing the vast amounts of energy we urgently need to electrify all aspects of life and raise living standards worldwide. One of the most promising concepts is based on the use of liquid fuel. If the liquid fuel concept is combined with liquid lead as a coolant, nuclear power could achieve unrivalled power density and efficiency. As a result, energy could become cheaper than ever before. While energy supply has traditionally been the responsibility of governments, there is now a strong case for supporting promising approaches with private funding or through public-private partnerships, and allowing the free market to find the best solution.

Keywords

Dual Fluid; Nuclear; SMR; Small Modular; Nuclear; Reactor; Generation 4; Generation 5; Efficiency; EROI; Synthetic Fuel; SynFuel; Energy autarky; Liquid fuel reactors; Abundant clean energy; Efficient energy production; Energy return; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Mr. Franz Probst, Prof. Dr. Barbara Haering and Mr. Ken Duncan

Abstract

This article argues that economic development in the global South is essential to addressing the challenges of large-scale international migration. The experience of Africa and India illustrates how migration and urbanisation can together contribute to economic and social development and in so doing act as a brake on irregular migration to the global North. It is therefore in the interests of countries in the North and South alike to facilitate such development. To do so, greater investment is required in education and skills training, especially for youths. The artisanal and intermediate-level technical skills required by the manufacturing and light engineering industries should be prioritised as a foundation for broader economic development. Such skills are best acquired through vocational education and training programmes that employers help to design, finance and implement, and that make extensive use of training through productive work. Large-scale projects have already demonstrated how such training can be organised and implemented effectively. Free global cities are well placed to provide this kind of training and to benefit quickly from it.

Keywords

South-South migration; Impact of urbanisation; Benefits of immigration; Skills training for migrants; Market-driven VET; Role of employers; Work-based training; Benefits of VET to free global cities; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Prof. Tan Eng Chye, Mr. Terence Poon

Abstract

Many ask about how to become a world-class university. Yet it is equally important to ask why. The National University of Singapore (NUS) undertook two major changes in the past three decades, including becoming a world-class university, to remain relevant to its

community. In the mid-1990s, relevance meant that NUS grew from a largely teaching university into a comprehensive research university, because this would support the national strategy of turning Singapore into a knowledge economy. NUS benefited from globalisation and a national policy to grant universities operational autonomy; it hired and nurtured talented people, introduced entrepreneurial education, and created educational programmes. In the past decade, relevance has meant dealing with the increasingly complex problems Singapore and the world face. NUS has encouraged greater collaboration across academic disciplines, with government, business, and communities, as well as across borders. In research and innovation, it has built platforms for talented people to come together and address shared problems. In education, it has created space for interdisciplinary and lifelong learning alongside disciplinary specialisation and educating high-school graduates. As NUS and other universities grapple with rising geopolitical tensions and the impact of Artificial Intelligence, it remains uncertain what relevance will mean. A few observations, based on the NUS experience, may be salient: Universities must not be wedded to any one model, but seek relevance. Universities are about talented people, wherever they may come from; it is crucial to welcome them, and enable them to learn together, work together and grow together. The character of a university as a community of talented people is a source of strength as it renews its relevance and adapts.

Keywords

Higher education; Higher education research institutions; University; Academic research; Spin-off; College; Human capital; Manpower training; Skills; Global collaboration; University autonomy; Higher education governance; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Centre Freezone

Author: Dr. Andreas Baumgartner

Abstract

Since its creation in 2004, Dubai International Financial Centre has been a trailblazer, synonymous with the most successful and innovative special economic zone in the financial services spaces. Often copied, it has created enormous economic impact for Dubai and has contributed to firmly positioning Dubai on the global map. Strategic location, an outstanding regulatory and governance framework, tax benefits, worldclass infrastructure, access to a large market, innovation and technology focus, strong government support, a diverse and inclusive community – if one adds to those factors a clear value proposition, unwavering commitment as well as the willingness to go the extra mile and push boundaries, this characterizes DIFC well. Yet, what have been the stages of development of DIFC? What is the legal, regulatory and institutional setup? And: What can be learned from DIFC for Free Global Cities? This is explored using the framework of Key Success Factors, as established by Napoleon Hill. However, DIFC is far from just a “historic case study”. As it celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024, it is full of buzz and vibrancy. The best is still to come – this is the aspiration for the next decades.

Keywords

Dubai; United Arab Emirates; Dubai International Financial Centre; DIFC; Dubai Financial Services Authority; DFSA; DIFC Courts; Free Zone; Special Economic Zone; Innovation; Financial Hub; Financial Centre; DIFC Innovation Hub; DIFC Academy; DIFC Family Wealth Centre; FinTech; Napoleon Hill; Key Success Factors; Purpose; Creative Vision; Self- Discipline; Commitment; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Oliver Porter

Abstract

Replacement of Bureaucracies with Private Companies in Local Governments The article describes the processes and advantages of providing services to local governments by the use of competitive bids by private companies. The model that is set forth was created and implemented in the new city of Sandy Springs, Georgia, USA. The new city of approximately 100,000 citizens was able to start with only two government employees since all services were contracted.

Topics covered in the article include:

I. The Sandy Springs model

II. Services provided

III. Critical decisions

IV. Government structure

V. Community involvement

VI. Advantages of the private industry model

VII. Applicability to the Andan Refugee cities

Keywords

Local government; New cities; Private industry; Government services ; Competitive bidding; Free Global Cities; Free Global City

Author: Pro. Khoo Teng Chye

Abstract

This chapter outlines Singapore's transformation from a fledging developing nation beset with various issues such as overcrowding and poor living conditions to a highly liveable and global city, where 5.9 million people live, work, learn and play in. This was done through taking an urban systems approach with the Liveability Framework (LF) underpinning it. The liveability outcomes, systems, and guiding principles of the LF were described and elaborated before going into Singapore's development journey starting with immigration. As the population and workforce grew, different priorities such as sustainable environment entered the picture, and how that became intertwined with the liveability outcomes was detailed. Various case studies such as one-north and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park were documented too. Finally, the road that Singapore took to become a global metropolis and hub was fleshed out, with aspirations of greater sustainability and innovation interspersed. It is through this chapter that the author hopes that Singapore would be able to better share its expertise and experience in urban development and planning, and help create more liveable, sustainable, and free global cities.

Keywords

Urban systems approach; Liveability; Urban planning; City in Nature; City for All; Free Global Cities; Free Global City