CITISENSE 2nd Transnational Meeting: Two Days of Urban Innovation in Liepāja, Latvia
From May 27–28, 2025, the Municipal Police of city of Liepāja, Latvia, - a key partner of the URBACT CITISENSE Innovation Transfer Network - hosted the Network’s second transnational meeting. Over two packed days, city representatives, urban planners, youth organizations and innovation experts gathered to exchange knowledge, test new ideas and explore collaborative solutions for safer, more inclusive cities.
Exploring Urban Security on Two Wheels
The meeting kicked off with a dynamic cycling tour through Liepāja’s urban hotspots. Participants gained first-hand insights into the city’s challenges and ongoing efforts to improve public safety and inclusivity. The field visit set the stage for meaningful discussions on how urban design, citizen engagement and data-driven strategies can reduce insecurity and improve urban life.
Diving into the SHIp Method
One of the highlights was the SHIp Method Workshop, led by URBACT Ad Hoc Expert Dr. Edna Peza Ramirez and hosted by the youth organization YOU+ — Liepāja’s first youth space. In this engaging session, partners explored the SHIp (Social Innovation Planning) method, gaining practical tools and insights on how to apply it in their own cities to drive bottom-up change, strengthen civic engagement and foster innovative urban solutions.
Workshops, Knowledge Exchange & Public Dialogue
Throughout the two days, participants engaged in transfer module workshops, presentations and peer feedback sessions. Discussions covered best practices, challenges and innovative approaches to urban transformation. A special public event created space for dialogue between experts, municipal leaders focused on youth and the local community.
Next Steps for CITISENSE
As the meeting wrapped up, partners mapped out the next steps at the network level, setting priorities for future collaborations and knowledge-sharing. With new insights and stronger connections, the CITISENSE network moves forward, aiming to transfer innovation and foster urban change across EU cities.
