Video series "Glossary - Towards a different city"

Here is a series of four videos in which we clarify the basic concepts that define a better life in the city for all of us. Through practice, we have repeatedly had the opportunity to see that the city is planned and developed according to the interests of individuals who have power, while no one asks the citizens anything. Our mission is to break this pattern and get a sustainable and developed city where we are comfortable, where we feel safe and where we like to live.

This video series presents how we can reach a city where we live in a better, more relaxed and comfortable way.

In the first episode, we presented the concepts we will talk about, as well as the opinions of our associates, friends and most importantly, the residents of this city, what is a different city for them. These are all proposals that concern everyday life, and the conditions for their realization can be planned through urban planning, housing policies and green policies.

The second episode deals with the topic of affordable housing, which is necessary for a city designed on democratic principles. There are numerous systemic measures that can be introduced to make housing more socially just and accessible to the greatest number of citizens. Regulation of the real estate market is possible through the limitation of rent, and an important measure is the increase of the fund of public apartments, which can be rented on fair terms and in accordance with average and minimum incomes. In this way, we achieve the right to housing, which is one of the basic human rights. In the video, we also talked about other systemic measures, so listen and tell us what you think about it.

The next episode deals with the topic of just energy transition. Measures that imply the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions require a certain economic standard, which the citizens of Serbia generally do not have. The building sector is the biggest energy consumer and polluter, and the energy renovation of residential buildings is mostly expected from real estate owners. What happens if the owner does not have the money for the energy rehabilitation of his home? He will have to pay ever higher bills for electricity and heating, while those who were rich enough to invest in more energy efficient solutions will be left with savings in their pockets. If the energy transition is not socially sensitive, its results will only deepen social inequalities in Serbia. In the third episode, we talked about the measures that need to be introduced in order to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide, but also thematized the important question of who will finance it and how those with average or minimal incomes, who do not have money for unplanned expenses.

Collaborative planning is the theme of the last episode. We believe that this is the way to involve everyone in city planning - both experts and citizens. A place where we will get as diverse insights as possible and arrive at solutions for spaces that take into account all angles and interests. This way of planning is institutionalized in some European systems, and the idea is to do it here as well. Watch the video and tell us your opinion, whether collaborative planning would lead to a better organized city.

We would also like to hear your insights, what would be a different city for you, so write to us in the comments on Youtube or on the networks!