Bern’s Bold Plan: A Glimpse into the Future of Inclusive Cities
The city of Bern, Switzerland, is charting a course for a more inclusive future with its recent “Focus Plan for Migration and Racism” (2026-2029). Building on over a decade of experience since 2011, this plan isn’t just a set of policies; it’s a strategic blueprint for how cities can proactively address discrimination and foster genuine participation for all residents. The plan encompasses 51 measures, a mix of continuing existing initiatives and introducing 26 new ones, all aimed at solidifying Bern as a “City for All.”
Citizen Cards and Digital Inclusion: A New Model for Urban Identity
A key component of Bern’s plan is the introduction of the “Citizen Card.” Integrated with the city’s expanding digital services through the BernPortal, this card will serve as an independent proof of residency, identity, and age for all inhabitants. This move reflects a growing trend towards digital identity solutions in cities worldwide, aiming to streamline access to services and enhance civic participation. Similar initiatives are being explored in cities like Amsterdam and Tallinn, Estonia, which are already leaders in digital governance.
The Citizen Card isn’t simply about convenience. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their immigration status or length of stay, has a verifiable means of identification. What we have is particularly crucial for accessing essential services like healthcare, education, and housing.
Strengthening Political Participation and Addressing Racism
The plan prioritizes increasing the political involvement of marginalized communities. This includes initiatives to improve reporting mechanisms for racist incidents and raise awareness about antisemitism and discrimination within the general population, administration, and schools. The focus on education and awareness aligns with broader efforts to combat systemic racism, as highlighted by organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center and the NAACP.
Bern’s approach to systematically collecting and addressing different forms of racism is noteworthy. Many cities struggle with accurately tracking and responding to hate crimes and discriminatory practices. By establishing a clear framework for data collection and analysis, Bern aims to move beyond reactive measures and implement proactive strategies.
A Participatory Approach: Co-Creating Inclusive Policies
What sets Bern’s plan apart is its emphasis on participatory development. All 51 measures were developed through a collaborative process involving a wide range of stakeholders, both within and outside the city administration. This inclusive approach ensures that the plan reflects diverse perspectives and addresses the specific needs of different communities. This mirrors best practices in urban planning, where community engagement is increasingly recognized as essential for successful and equitable outcomes.
As Ursina Anderegg, a member of the city council, emphasizes, a truly inclusive city requires shared responsibility, open dialogue, and active participation from all residents.
The Broader Trend: Cities as Laboratories for Inclusion
Bern’s initiative is part of a larger global trend of cities taking the lead on issues of migration, integration, and anti-racism. Faced with increasing diversity and growing social inequalities, cities are experimenting with innovative policies and programs to promote inclusion and social cohesion.
For example, Barcelona has implemented a comprehensive integration plan for migrants, focusing on language training, employment support, and access to housing. Toronto, Canada, is known for its multiculturalism policies and its commitment to welcoming newcomers. These examples demonstrate that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a need for tailored approaches that reflect the specific context of each city.
Challenges and Opportunities
Implementing such ambitious plans is not without its challenges. Securing adequate funding, overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, and addressing resistance from certain segments of the population are all potential obstacles. Yet, the potential benefits – a more just, equitable, and vibrant city – are well worth the effort.
FAQ
Q: What is the Citizen Card?
A: It’s a digital identity card for all Bern residents, serving as proof of residency, identity, and age.
Q: How was the plan developed?
A: Through a participatory process involving numerous internal and external stakeholders.
Q: What is the main goal of the plan?
A: To strengthen Bern as a “City for All” by promoting inclusion and combating racism.
What are your thoughts on Bern’s plan? Share your comments below and let’s discuss how cities can build a more inclusive future for everyone.
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