RSA seminar "Capital Cities: Embracing the Change and Tapping into Opportunities" in Riga (Call for papers)

The third seminar of the RSA Research Network “The impact of global economic crisis on capital cities” will continue the discussions started at our previous two seminars in Warsaw (2011) and Kyiv (2012). It will look at how capital cities have embraced the opportunities brought by changes in socioeconomic framework. It is 5 years since last global economic crisis has started and there is some evidence on how it is affecting countries and cities. The seminar that will be held in Latvia will provide an excellent platform to discuss the main actors and tools at hands of European Capital cities to stabilise their economy and advance their development.

This RSA Research Network Seminar will address the discussion on the different approaches used by capital cities in dealing with socioeconomic changes in Europe. In particular the seminar will contribute to four core questions:

1. Cities unlocking new opportunities – sectors, markets, niches, people. 2. Passive followers (path-dependants) and proactive creators (trend-setters) in the time of changes. 3. The importance of innovation for modern day success of capital city in delivering services, engaging with community, satisfying ever-changing needs and gaining new markets. 4. Networking and internationalization – going global as a fashion or necessity.

Seminar participants are invited to present papers contributing to the above mentioned core questions and discussion areas. Presentations on other topics related to the impact of the global economic crisis on capital cities are also welcome. Working language – English.

For further information about the event (programme, participation requirements, etc.) please, download or visit the network blog at capitalcitiesaftercrisis.blogspot.com.