As we continue our exploration of the metaverse and UN 2.0, we now shift focus to the CitiVerse Initiative. This initiative is a critical step in integrating virtual worlds with urban infrastructure, paving the way for smarter, more inclusive cities.
The article is part of the the series ‘UN 2.0 and the Metaverse: Are we seeing what is possible?’ Full article was published with Diplofoundation.
Where the future begins
The future is increasingly being shaped in cities. During UN Virtual Worlds Day 2024, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC), and Digital Dubai launched the CitiVerse Initiative.
The CitiVerse Initiative seeks to harness the metaverse to drive progress toward the SDGs by developing virtual world solutions for cities. It creates interconnected digital environments that not only replicate but also enhance physical spaces, promoting innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in urban development.
Pillars of change
The CitiVerse Initiative serves as a comprehensive platform that integrates technological advancements with governance, collaboration, and ethical development. It goes beyond technology itself, focusing on its responsible deployment to tackle urban challenges while ensuring governance frameworks prioritise public benefit.
This vision is structured around three key pillars, guiding the responsible and effective integration of virtual worlds into urban environments.
U4SSC: The future started yesterday
The foundation for this evolutionary development of smart cities within the UN system goes back to 2016, when the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) launched the United for Smart Sustainable Cities (U4SSC) Initiative. Supported by various UN organisations, the U4SSC initiative serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing and partnerships to help cities achieve the SDGs. U4SSC provides a globally recognised framework upon which the CitiVerse Initiative can build.
Dynamic Policy Maturity Benchmark Model
Following the UN Summit of the Future, the U4SSC published reports in 2024 to advance sustainable digital transformation, including the Dynamic Policy Maturity Benchmark Model (Policy Benchmarks for Digital Transformation of People-Centred Cities).
The model addresses the need for a standardised, structured, dynamic, and iterative approach to policymaking due to the rapid evolution of emerging technology in the digital age. Policies must be continuously evaluated and updated (iterative) and remain flexible enough to adapt to new information and changing circumstances (dynamic).
Beyond the sandbox
The Dynamic Policy Maturity Benchmark Model represents a significant shift from experimentation within a controlled sandbox environment to the active, purpose-driven utilisation of emerging technologies in the real world. This is the essence of ‘harnessing’ – a conscious recognition and commitment to the profound transformative potential of these technologies. Establishing a continuous cycle and a loop system ensures that technology is grounded in reality. This fundamental shift aligns with UN 2.0’s call to action.
For the full article, please go to my publication at Diplofoundation.