Networks and cities' news

Introduction of a new digital system (ASP) in Újbuda

The introduction of the ASP (Application Service Provider) system, which will bring significant changes to the way local administrations operate, aims to support the digital transformation of local authorities and strengthen central IT support. The development, previously part of an EU project, will focus on improving efficiency and transparency, while preserving fiscal stability. The system will be provided to local governments by the Hungarian State Treasury. The Municipality of Újbuda will implement the service from 1 January 2026. 

The ASP system provided to municipalities is a comprehensive IT service that provides a single platform for the most important municipal tasks. This includes integrated systems for taxation, management, document management, property registration, industrial and commercial administration, and electronic customer portals. 

One of the biggest benefits of the system is that it provides free access for local authorities, so they can switch to digital without major investment. Through central training programmes to support the roll-out, municipal staff receive detailed, professional support to ensure a smooth transition.

Beyond tree plantations: Celebrate mature trees that provide great benefits for cities and citizens!

Spring is here, and until June 2025, BiodiverCity partner cities are loud with BiodiverCity Festivals celebrating urban biodiversity. Our ad-hoc expert, Rita Szerencsés, facilitated partner cities in the last months to activate residents along those festivals and raise awareness towards the magnificent ecosystem services trees provide for us.

Tree plantations, guided tours, promotion of monumental trees, forest bathing, craft workshops, art exhibitions, cultural programmes and interactive activities promoting biodiversity are organised for all generations in these weeks in 10 corners of Europe. Urban green areas are indeed great assets to engage residents and explain the benefits of nature (the so-called ecosystem services). But while thousands of residents actively participate in tree plantations, which is great, of course, fewer people know that most of these ecosystem services are provided by mature trees. And in many parts of Europe, they face serious challenges: never seen drought, increased pollution (traffic, dogs, humans) and neglect by public utility companies when earthworks are needed.

So, how to raise awareness towards these essential issues? Our ad-hoc expert, Rita Szerencsés, summed up what is going on during the BiodiverCity Festivals and what challenges partner cities faced while organising the festivals. 

Seine-Saint-Denis Hosts URBACT Local Group Meeting on Early Childhood and Migrants' Rights

On March 27, WELDI partner Seine-Saint-Denis held its 8th URBACT Local Group (ULG) meeting on services for early childhood. A good opportunity to get to know a particular systematic approach to working with the ULG.

FIRST FLOWERS FESTIVAL IN VRATSA CELEBRATES SPRING AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

The first Flowers festival was organized in Vratsa during Easter time this year. The event involved over 20 florists from all over the country. The entire city was transformed with stunning flower-based decorations and installations, creating a colourful and joyful atmosphere in every corner. Streets, parks, and public spaces were adorned with beautiful floral arrangements, bringing the essence of spring to life. The city, usually known for its scenic beauty, became a living canvas, where each decoration was a reminder of nature’s fragility and the need to protect it.

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Where are the children? Putting young people back into Sustainable Urban Development

Sustainable cities for whom? It’s time to put young people back on the map