Cities, as urban spaces for co-existence where more than 70% of the world’s population lives, are undoubtedly of great importance to their own people, but their presence has become increasingly notable internationally, and connections with other cities at events and in trans-national networks of like-minded cities are on the rise, to achieve such objectives as finding best practices in environmental sustainability and making use of cutting-edge technologies, as is the case with “Smart Cities” or the “Greencities” network.
 
Cities are also main role-players in terms of public diplomacy, as an international showcase for the level of development and cultural wealth offered by countries as a whole. In this sense, the Casas Network is an ideal tool for taking a closer look at the various facets forming part of the “urban diplomacy” phenomenon from all geographic perspectives, giving us the opportunity to study the international activities and influence of cities and their impact on the lifestyle and standard of living of their people.
 
The course, to be held from July 3 to 7 in Madrid, is open to members of civil society. To take part, you must have a university-level academic background and knowledge of the English language, because some of the speakers will not be expressing themselves in Spanish. The course is free of charge, with admission by order of registration.

Course program