In this conversation, Atossa discusses her book 'The Hidden Globe,' which explores the complexities of special economic zones and the unconventional legal systems that exist outside traditional nation-states. She reflects on her upbringing in Geneva, Switzerland, and how it shaped her understanding of sovereignty and international law. The discussion delves into the evolution of citizenship by investment, the implications of offshoring asylum seekers, and the rise of a digital nomad class that challenges traditional notions of belonging and social contracts. In this conversation, Atossa and Mark delve into the complexities of immigration, the dynamics of migrant labor in Saudi Arabia, the challenges of governance in conflict zones, and the future of charter cities. They explore the motivations behind migration, the implications of statelessness, and the evolving nature of sovereignty in regions experiencing instability. The discussion also touches on the potential and pitfalls of charter cities as a solution to governance issues in developing countries.

In this conversation, Kurtis discusses his transition from CCI to establishing the Africa Urban Lab at the African School of Economics in Zanzibar. He highlights the urgent need for new universities in Africa to harness the continent's demographic potential and improve education quality. The conversation delves into the challenges of setting up a university, the focus on practical skills in the curriculum, and the strategic advantages of Zanzibar as a location. Kurtis also outlines the vision for the Africa Urban Lab and the broader goals for CCI in the coming years. In this conversation, Kurtis and Mark delve into the complexities surrounding charter cities, particularly in Honduras, discussing the political risks, the importance of local integration, and the lessons learned from historical transformations. They explore the role of institutions in economic growth and the challenges faced by societies with fragmented ideologies. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the strategies for economic development, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of institutional frameworks and local contexts.

Imagine a world where cities are not just places to live, but dynamic hubs of innovation, specialization, and cooperation. What if the cities of today are shaping the political and economic landscapes of tomorrow in ways we are only beginning to understand? In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of urban development with Ian Goldin, a leading expert on global development and urbanization. Ian is a renowned Professor of Globalisation and Development at the University of Oxford, where he directs the Oxford Martin School and the Oxford Martin Programme on Technological and Economic Change. In our conversation, we discuss the historical evolution of cities, the ways cities drive innovation, and the transition from manufacturing-based economies to knowledge-based economies. Explore the continued rise of major cities, the challenges they will face, the impact of remote work on urban clustering and economic geography, and how cities shape the politics of a country. Discover strategies for creating more accessible and equitable cities, why transport, education, and housing are vital, how urban policies need to change, mitigating climate change impacts through successful urbanization, and more! Tune in to uncover the hidden mechanisms behind urban success and the future of our rapidly urbanizing world with Ian Goldin!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Discover how cooperation, specialization, and innovation drive the evolution of cities.
• Unpack the role of diversity and connectivity in driving urban innovation.
• Learn about the key historical milestones in urban development.
• Impact of the Industrial Revolution on urban growth and specialization.
• Insights into the political implications of urban concentration.
• How cities can successfully transition from a manufacturing-based economy.
• Unpack the unique challenges faced by cities in developing countries.
• The future of industrialization and urbanization in a rapidly changing world.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Ian Goldin

Ian Goldin on X

Oxford University

Age of the City

The Death of Distance

Charter Cities Institute

Charter Cities Institute on Facebook

Charter Cities Institute on X