Caring Cities: Calling local leaders to the forefront of universal health coverage progress

On 19 March 2024, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) launched its GOLD VII Multimedia Journal on Economies of Equality and Care. This flagship research initiative aims to drive action-oriented, multi-stakeholder collaboration to explore how local and regional governments can champion “Economies of Equality and Care” in their cities and territories. 

Dr. Magda Robalo and Dr. Pamela Cipriano, co-chairs of the UHC2030 Steering Committee, proudly contributed to this publication, urging local leaders to prioritize health as a core investment for resilient, equitable cities.

“A caring city is one that prioritizes people and protects the fundamental right to health. It puts people, not diseases, at the center of its health systems. It is equitable and people powered.”

Their contribution highlights how the challenges of urbanization, environmental barriers, economic inequities, and social exclusion contribute to health disparities, particularly in underserved urban communities. 

With over 4.5 billion people lacking access to essential health services, our co-chairs stress the importance of building “caring cities” that embrace universal health coverage as a right. They call for integrated urban systems, people-centered governance, and equitable health systems to address the needs of marginalized groups. 

Local governments are at the forefront of health service delivery. As such, they have a unique opportunity to transform urban health systems, protecting the most vulnerable while promoting overall community well-being. 

In their contribution, our co-chairs outline practical solutions, such as the “20-minute city” concept, ensuring that essential services are easily accessible. Read it now to explore actionable strategies and the vital role local leadership plays in shaping healthier, more inclusive cities for all.

Read the contribution