Inclusion and Belonging in Cities of Tomorrow

This open access book uncovers the historical context and entrenched beliefs that have perpetuated exclusionary urban landscapes and disadvantage for marginalized groups. It offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate interplay of geographical space, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping our cities and exacerbating spatial injustice. The construction industry, a vital agent in forging accessible environments, often falls short in accommodating persons with disabilities and older individuals. This important book underscores the urgent need for integrated approaches woven into the fabric of cities, companies, and the construction industry itself, to ensure universal accessibility. Drawing upon practical strategies and compelling case studies, the book presents actionable frameworks such as the DisCo Policy Framework and the Iceberg of Inequality Model, facilitating the assessment of progress towards achieving radical inclusion. Inviting readers to embark on a journey into the cities of tomorrow, where inclusion and belonging are the norm, it concludes with a simple idea: the future is accessible.

“The rapid spread of smart cities around the world has the potential to deepen inequality and accelerate inclusion and belonging. In his powerful and timely new volume, Dr. Victor Pineda calls on city leaders and residents to adopt a radically inclusive approach to urban design in a digitally transforming world. Drawing on lived experience and deep research, Inclusion and Belonging in Cities of Tomorrow is an invitation to re-imagine the twenty-first century city. Its central message is provocative and persuasive: the proactive embrace of marginalized communities in the design and decision-making of cities is key to improving governance, competitiveness, sustainability, and quality of life for all.”

—Robert Muggah, Smart city expert and TED speaker, Founder of SecDev and Igarape Institute, Author of Terra Incognita (Random House)

"Victor Pineda's book is a seminal contribution to the field of urban governance and design. By highlighting the importance of inclusion and access in city planning, he challenges conventional notions and inspires readers to reimagine the future of our cities. 'Inclusion and Belonging in Cities of Tomorrow' is a thought-provoking and empowering read that calls for transformative change, inviting policymakers, planners, scholars and activists to work together in creating cities that prioritize the well-being and participation of all residents."

—Eugenie L. Birch FAICP, Nussdorf Professor of Urban Research, Department of City and Regional Planning, Dean, Graduate Studies, Stuart Weitzman School of Design

“Dr. Victor Pineda's vision of accessible, inclusive cities is not only compelling, but an essential and seminal contribution to the fields of design and governance. His book provides a thought-provoking roadmap for designers to follow, to ensure our future cities serve the diverse disabled community holistically and fully. Inclusion should not be an afterthought in design, and this book expertly highlights why and how we should begin: the task belongs not only to designers (e.g., architects, landscape architects, urban designers), but in direct partnership with policymakers, city planners, and activists working together to prioritize the participation and integration of direct feedback from stakeholders with disabilities. As a former student of Dr. Pineda, this book is a must-read for students in design and practitioners alike, who wish to become more inclusive of the disabled community and work towards designing a more accessible world.”

—Alexa Vaughn, ASLA, FAAR, Landscape Designer, DeafScape & Accessibility Specialist, and PhD Student at UCLA.

“Victor Pineda is a powerful voice advocating for cities that are inclusive and accessible to all. This is absolutely critical to achieve the SDG target of leaving no one behind by 2030, an increasingly complex task due to the development setbacks caused by COVID, climate change and conflict. When designed and managed inclusively, cities offer an effective pathway for people to break out of the cycle of poverty and marginalization. Victor’s tireless energy and ability to connect across global audiences of policymakers, development practitioners and communities is an important driving force towards sustainable urbanization.”

—Sameh Wahba, The World Bank Group

“In 'Inclusion and Belonging in Cities of Tomorrow,' Dr. Victor Pineda presents a comprehensive and practical guide to using innovative approaches to transforming cities into spaces that embrace diversity and ensure accessibility for all. Technology should be harnessed to accelerate progress toward better inclusivity and accessibility in every city around the world. This book is an essential resource for anyone committed to creating inclusive communities and fostering a sense of belonging for every individual."

—Miguel GAMIÑO Jr., Chief Experience Officer & Founding Partner Simplicity

“This book is a groundbreaking, inspiring, and urgent call for incorporating spatial justice and inclusion in urban planning and public policies. It is an important resource for understanding how older individuals and people with disabilities can be prioritized in the design and planning of cities and how everyone benefits.”

—Vinit Mukhija, Professor, Department of Urban Planning, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs

"Dr. Pineda's book, 'Inclusion and Belonging in Cities of Tomorrow', is a profound contribution to our understanding of urban inclusivity. The compelling case studies and innovative frameworks align perfectly with the New Urban Agenda and my organization’s contributions towards the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. This book is an indispensable resource for any global leader committed to building inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities."

—Maimunah Sharif, Deputy Secretary-General United Nations, Executive Director, UN Habitat, Nairobi, Kenya

Victor Santiago Pineda is a lecturer in the Department of City and Regional Planning at the University of California Berkeley, USA. He is a two-time presidential appointee and a globally recognized leader on governance and urban transformation. His teaching, research and practice have advanced innovation in urban policy, planning and global governance.