Mexico is awarded the top prize with Special Mentions going to Cape Town, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro and Wellington
MEXICO City was awarded the 2024 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize (LKYWCP) for its outstanding commitment in uplifting the lives of its citizens through innovative and sustainable urban initiatives, especially for the less privileged. The Prize Laureate’s citation stated that “In navigating the challenges of a metropolis of nine million residents and a transient population of six million traveling from outside the city for work and other purposes, Mexico City’s successive leadership stands out for its visionary approach, effectively tackling pressing issues on the ground with passion and dedication”. For the full citation click here
The Prize is a biennial international award jointly organised by Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Centre for Liveable Cities since 2010. It honours outstanding achievements and contributions to the creation of liveable, vibrant and sustainable urban communities around the world.
Special Mention Cities
This year’s results were announced on 7th May 2024 and the 2024 Prize Laureate will be presented at the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Award Ceremony & Banquet, a gala dinner in June 2024 evening. There is also a list of ‘Special Mention’ cities that were recognised for their achievements and best practices in city management: Cape Town (South Africa), Melbourne (Australia), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and Wellington (New Zealand).
According to Dr. Cheong Koon Hean, Chair of the Nominating Committee for the Prize, ““Despite advancements in human science and technology, many basic human needs remain unmet in cities and social inequities continue to exist. Mexico City has demonstrated how its citizen-centric city programmes, supported by strong leadership and new digital initiatives to simplify and improve access to public services, can benefit its residents, regardless of their socio-economic status. Despite on-going challenges as a mega city, Mexico City provides an inspiring story, giving hope that it is possible to make impactful change if we are focused on a longer-term vision and boldly embrace urban innovation and inclusivity.”
A full media release on the awards can be found here
