Thessaloniki gets ready for its metro launch in November
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
They can now anonymously submit reports in relation to corruption and other misconducts online
In many cities, people often feel powerless when it comes to the corruption of local governments and city employees. Although some try to find ways of reporting unethical behaviour, others stay silent as they fear that they may put themselves in danger by speaking out.
Acknowledging this issue and the importance of being informed about suspected wrongdoings, the Finnish City of Turku has created a portal where residents can submit their concerns. The portal is reportedly based on the EU Directive that seeks to protect whistle-blowers. Therefore, it allows citizens to anonymously submit reports.
Using the portal, residents can report several unethical behaviours relating to one or more of the following topics: public procurement, theft, corruption, embezzlement, protection of privacy and personal data, ethical principles of the city, actions that are not in accordance with the laws, guidelines, and regulations, local road safety, and environmental protection.
Submissions will be completely anonymous as citizens can make reports without giving their names. In addition to submitting a tip, one can also open a “Secure Inbox”. By doing so, they will be able to receive feedback from the municipality and see how it is handling their report. Commenting on the new portal, Project Manager Jouni Satopää shared:
“It is an important tool for maintaining confidence in the city's operations. The portal can facilitate, for example, highlighting deficiencies in financial reporting and accounting. The reports are also checked carefully.”
It follows then that the portal will increase transparency and help the city combat unethical behaviour. In turn, it will strengthen people's trust in the municipality and make them feel safer, knowing that they can report suspected wrongdoing without putting themselves at risk.
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
That’s because the state has to spend money on updating the railway infrastructure rather than subsidizing the cost of the popular pass
Rethinking renewable energy sources for the urban landscape
The examples, compiled by Beyond Fossil Fuels, can inform and inspire communities and entrepreneurs that still feel trepidation at the prospect of energy transition
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
The 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns (ESCT) sets the stage for stronger cooperation between the EU, national and local level to fast track Europe's transition to climate neutrality.
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
Hostal de Pinós is located in the geographical centre of the autonomous region
Despite its church-y name, the district has long been known as the hangout spot for the artsy crowds
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
An interview with the Mayor of a Polish city that seeks to reinvent itself
An interview with the newly elected ICLEI President and Mayor of Malmö
A conversation with the Mayor of Lisbon about the spirit and dimensions of innovation present in the Portuguese capital