The city of Piraeus hosted the first transnational meeting of the European Innovation Transfer Network CITISENSE. Taking the lead as the main partner, the Municipality of Piraeus spearheads this ambitious initiative under the URBACT IV program, aiming to transfer and implement innovative urban security practices across Europe.
Building on the success of the UIA “BeSecure-FeelSecure” (BSFS) project, previously implemented in Piraeus, CITISENSE brings together six European cities—Naples, Liepāja, Fót, Geel, and Manresa—to foster urban safety and social well-being.
Advancing Urban Security Through Innovation
CITISENSE is set to replicate and expand the successful approaches developed in BSFS, transferring innovative security tools and methodologies, implementing pilot actions, promoting new governance models and adapting proven strategies to a broader European framework. The project will leverage URBACT's methodology and tools to enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange between participating cities.
During the two-day meeting, partner representatives focused on strengthening urban security and exchanging best practices to create more sustainable and resilient cities. The agenda included presentations, discussions and study visits on topics such as social and spatial interventions, digital tools for urban safety and governance models.
Among the key activities was a visit to the Piraeus Municipality’s Operations Center and the Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF), where a special session titled "Sports as a Catalyst for Youth Empowerment" took place. Speakers included: Christina Tsiligiri, President of SEF, Vasilis Nanos, Director of Olympiacos Academies and Antonis Tsotras, Olympic medalist. Additionally, participants joined a night tour of the historic Trouba district, guided by Litsa Bafouni, Director of Culture for the Municipality of Piraeus. The second day featured strategic meetings to outline network operations and plan the next steps.
Public Discussion on Innovative Urban Security Solutions
A public discussion on innovative solutions for urban security brought together experts from various fields to explore strategies for safer cities. Moderated by Dr. Pietro L. Verga, Lead Expert for CITISENSE, the session featured insights from Kyriaki Bourdakou, Deputy Mayor of Piraeus and President of the Local Council for Crime Prevention, who emphasized the role of local governance in crime prevention. Sotiris Karagiannis, Chief Innovation Officer at SPACE HELLAS, highlighted the potential of smart technologies in enhancing urban safety. Panagiotis Nikas, Founder and Director of the non-profit organization ZEUXIS, underscored the importance of social initiatives in supporting vulnerable populations. Adding an international perspective, Dr. Edna Peza-Ramirez, an expert in public space security from URBACT, discussed best practices for designing secure and inclusive public spaces. The discussion underscored the need for integrated solutions that balance technological advancements with social impact, fostering a holistic approach to urban security.
The discussion delved into the evolving landscape of urban security, examining how social dynamics, technological advancements, and data-driven strategies shape safer cities. Experts highlighted critical issues such as the safety of women and migrants, the rise of juvenile delinquency and the vital role of local councils like the Local Council of Crime Prevention and the Council for the Integration of Immigrants & Refugees of Piraeus in strengthening social cohesion. The conversation also explored the power of smart technologies and citizen-driven urban design in fostering trust between communities and authorities, ultimately paving the way for more resilient and inclusive public spaces.
Statements from City Officials
Andriana Zarakeli, Deputy Mayor of Outreach, Tourism & European Programs, welcomed the initiative: “I had the pleasure of welcoming our CITISENSE partners to Piraeus City Hall for this important European initiative that promotes urban security and sustainable city development. Through EU funding, we are transforming Piraeus into a modern, innovative, and sustainable urban hub, tackling today’s challenges while improving the quality of life for our residents and visitors.”
Kyriaki Bourdakou, Deputy Mayor and President of the Local Crime Prevention Council, highlighted: “Following the success of the BeSecure-FeelSecure project, we now have the opportunity, through CITISENSE, to share our knowledge and best practices with other European cities. Piraeus continues to evolve into a progressive and socially cohesive city, promoting inclusion, innovation, and crime prevention. Through targeted policies, European partnerships, and initiatives such as LCCP, we are enhancing safety for women, vulnerable groups, and all citizens.”
Key Participants & Project Information
The Public Discussion event, held at the Foyer of the Piraeus Municipal Theatre, was attended by: Dimitris Vlachakos, Deputy Mayor of Information Technology, Piraeus, Marlon Pareijn, Mayor of Geel (Belgium), Anjo Valentí, Deputy Mayor & Security Advisor, Manresa (Spain), Panagiota Voidonikola Theiakouli, President of the 5th Municipal Community of Piraeus, Representatives of the Piraeus Police Directorate & Representatives from local authorities, organizations and the public.
Project Duration: September 1, 2024 – August 31, 2026 (24 months)
Total Funding: €543,345.40 (70% co-financed by ERDF)
Relevant links:
Public Discussion and statements video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkoFsu0OXT4