World Urban Forum in Cairo, Egypt
Social networks and the urban inequality crisis: transnational analyses of humanitarian responses in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa.
UN-HABITAT – EGYPT – FORUM
Forum: Social Media, Inequality, and Futures – Bridging Realities in Policy and Programming
On November 6, 2024, at Multipurpose Room 07 (Norway), a forum organized by Urban-A and prestigious institutions such as the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) will explore how social media impacts urban inequality and social dynamics in the Global South, highlighting both its opportunities and challenges.
The forum will focus on the role of social media in the lives of migrant, displaced, and urban poor communities, examining how it helps build networks, access information, and plan for more equitable futures. It will also address how these platforms can perpetuate inequalities, particularly among marginalized groups, and discuss innovative initiatives designed to bridge these gaps.
Among the panelists is Santiago Caprio, a renowned Smart Cities expert and UN-Habitat advisor, who will share his perspective on integrating technology and social media into inclusive and sustainable urban models. His global experience brings a practical and strategic approach to addressing the challenges cities face in the context of urban inequality.
Additionally, the event will feature contributions from academics and practitioners from organizations such as Oxfam International, IIED, and Urban-A, presenting research and case studies that demonstrate how social media can be both a tool to alleviate inequality and a challenge by deepening digital divides.
This forum aims not only to deepen understanding of the impact of social media in urban contexts but also to reflect on practical solutions that can be applied across different geographies to advance toward a more inclusive future.