Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 1 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 2 3 MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE UNDER THE CENTURY OF TÜRKİYE VISION © 2024 REPUBLIC OF TÜRKİYE DIRECTORATE OF COMMUNICATIONS PUBLICATIONS 1st Edition, Istanbul, 2024 Contact Kızılırmak Mahallesi Mevlana Bulvarı No: 144 Çankaya Ankara / TÜRKİYE T: +90 312 590 20 00 | webinfo@iletisim.gov.tr Production Koru Medya Yayınevi Levent Mahallesi Manolyalı Sokak No: 3 Beşiktaş / İstanbul / TÜRKİYE T: 0212 284 75 59 Publisher Certificate No.: 49379 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 6 CONTENTS 19 INTRODUCTION Purpose and Scope of the Study 13 PREFACE 1. Historical Development of Municipalities 2. Democratization and Municipalities 3. Participatory and Smart Municipalism 4. Cultural and Social Municipalism 5. The Century of Türkiye Vision and Municipalities 20 20 20 20 21 3.1. Theoretical Framework of Participatory Municipalism Models 3.1.1. Participatory Municipality Practices in Türkiye 3.1.2. Exemplary Practices 67 68 70 67 SECTION THREE PARTICIPATORY MUNICIPAL APPROACHES AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES 49 SECTION TWO DEMOCRATIZATION AND MUNICIPALITIES 2.1. Historical Perspective: Municipalities and Democratization in Türkiye 2.2. Democratic Participation 2.1.1. From the Ottoman Empire to the Republic: Modernization and Transformation in Municipalities 2.1.2. Municipalities During the Democratization Process 2.1.3. The European Union Process and Strengthening Local Governments 2.2.1. Increasing the Rights Granted to Municipalities 2.2.2. Encouraging Public Participation in Decision Making Processes 2.2.3. Strengthening Local Democracy 2.2.4. Exemplary Practices and Projects 49 53 50 54 52 52 54 55 56 2.3. Local Development and Democratization 2.4. Future Perspective 2.5. Strengthening Transparency and Accountability 56 60 62 4.1. The Impact of Technology and Innovation on Municipalities 4.1.1. Smart City Applications and Their Impact on Citizens' Life Quality 4.1.2. Exemplary Practices 82 82 84 81 SECTION FOUR SMART MUNICIPALISM AND ITS REFLECTIONS ON CITIZENS 5.1. Cultural Activities and Social Policies of Municipalities 5.1.1. Exemplary Practices 92 92 91 SECTION FIVE CULTURAL MUNICIPALISM AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES 25 SECTION ONE THE JOURNEY OF MUNICIPALISM IN TÜRKİYE FROM PAST TO PRESENT 1.2. Municipalism in the Republican Era 1.3. Current Approaches of Municipalism in Türkiye 1.1.1. The First Local Government Structure 1.1.2. Sehremaneti Institution and Altinci Daire-i Belediye (The Sixth Municipality Department) 1.2.1. Outlines of Municipalism in the Republican Era 1.2.2. Municipality Law and Subsequent Developments 1.2.3. Metropolitan Municipality System in Türkiye 1.2.4. Municipality Approach After 1994 1.1. Municipalism in the Ottoman Period 25 31 40 27 29 32 34 36 38 8.1. Reflection of the “Century of Türkiye” Vision on Municipalities 131 8.2. The Role of Technology and Innovation in Local Governments 8.3. Future Projection and Strategies 8.1.1. Global Competitiveness 8.1.2. Sustainable Development 8.1.3. Improving the Life Quality of Citizens 8.2.1. Smart City Applications 8.2.2. Digital Transformation 8.2.3. Innovative Projects 140 142 131 133 136 140 141 141 151 CONCLUSION 129 SECTION EIGHT MUNICIPALITES WITH THE CENTURY OF TÜRKİYE VISION 7.2. The Importance of Public Opinion Surveys 7.3. Utilization of Survey Results 7.4. Levels of Expectation Satisfaction 7.5. Ways for Improvement 117 118 119 122 7.5.1. Participatory Municipality Practices 7.5.2. Effective Use of Technology and Innovation 7.5.3. Sustainable Development Oriented Projects Environmentally Friendly Transportation Solutions 7.5.4. Strengthening Transparency and Accountability 122 123 123 124 7.1. Public Opinion Surveys and Polls 6.2.1. Exemplary Practices 116 107 115 SECTION SEVEN CITIZENS' EXPECTATIONS FROM MUNICIPALITIES 103 SECTION SIX SOCIAL MUNICIPALISM / SERVICE-ORIENTED MUNICIPALISM AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES 6.1. Social Municipalism Practices 104 6.2. Social Policy Practices of Municipalities 106 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 13 PREFACE Local administrations are of paramount impor­ tance in facilitating the development and ad­ vancement of Türkiye, specifically in the deliv­ ery of essential services that directly impact the populace. Services provided by municipalities and special provincial directorates are complementary to the functioning of central governments. In tandem with evolving needs, municipal servic­ es are expanding in form, standard, and scope. The globalization process has not eliminated lo­ cal governments' relevance; on the contrary, it has strengthened them even more. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 14 15 Municipalities are no longer just institutions dealing with roads, sewerage, water, garbage and sanitation but have become the conductors of many social, cultural, and artistic projects. With the cities of the Century of Türkiye, we aim for a vision of local governments that goes far beyond classical municipalities, from advanced technology infrastructure to services that would improve the quality of life of our people. With this understanding: By establishing disaster-resistant, resilient, and sturdy settlements... By developing infrastructures that are compat­ ible with the next-generation digital technolo­ gies... By strengthening local government models that support value-producing economies… By broadening the scope of social municipal ser­ vices to encompass all segments of society, es­ pecially children, elders, disabled people, youth, and women... By preserving our family structure, the basis of our society, with material and moral support... By expanding sustainable management practic­ es that are sensitive to the environment and na­ ture... By establishing peaceful and safe cities with aes­ thetically pleasing architecture and preserved historical and cultural assets... By improving living conditions in rural areas and encouraging people to stay where they were born and raised... We are determined to prepare our cities for the future with participatory, high-quality, and satis­ faction-based administrations. I hope the book "Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision" will illuminate our understanding of municipalities that fit our per­ spective. I extend my congratulations to every­ one who participated in this book's preparation. I hope the March 31 Local Administration elec­ tions will be auspicious for our cities, country, and nation. PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TÜRKİYE RECEP TAYYİP ERDOĞAN Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 17 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 18 19 INTRODUCTION PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE STUDY M unicipalities play a central role in Türkiye’s political, economic and social structure. In this context, by going beyond being just an ad­ ministrative and political institution, the munic­ ipalities also gain importance in terms of eco­ nomic development, social justice and cultural enrichment. The aim of this study is to examine in detail the de­ velopment process of municipalism in Türkiye from past to present and its direction in the future with the “Century of Türkiye Vision”. In addition, the study discusses the historical evolution of mu­ nicipalism, the exemplary practices, challenges and opportunities that the municipalities face today, and how technological innovations and sustainable development goals can be integrat­ ed into the policies of municipalities. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 20 21 The scope of the study has been shaped around the following main themes. 1. Historical Development of the Municipalities The development of municipalism in Türkiye from the Ottoman period to the present day, the reforms made after the foundation of the Re­ public and the transformations, especially in the post-1994 period, will be examined. 2. Democratization and Municipalities The role of municipalities in the democratization process, the importance of public participation in decision-making processes and its effects on social development will be evaluated. 3. Participatory and Smart Municipalism The rise of participatory municipality approach in Local Governments, active participation of citizens in decision-making processes and the transformations created by smart municipality applications in the provision of local services will be discussed. 4. Cultural and Social Municipalism The impact of municipalities on cultural heritage protection, social policies and social integration projects will be analyzed. 5. The Century of Türkiye Vision and Municipalities The importance of “the Century of Türkiye Vi­ sion”, which was declared by our President Re­ cep Tayyip Erdoğan, in terms of municipalities, how this vision is reflected in local government policies and practices, and its potential future effects will be analyzed. President of Türkiye and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, “Century of Türkiye” Presentation Meeting, Ankara 2022 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 23 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 24 25 SECTION ONE THE JOURNEY OF MUNICIPALISM IN TÜRKİYE FROM PAST TO PRESENT 1.1.1. Municipalism in the Ottoman Period U rbanization and municipalism in the Ot­ toman period were closely related to the administration and restructuring of conquered cities. Particularly the conquest of Istanbul con­ stitutes an important example of the Ottoman understanding of urbanization and municipal practices. After the conquest, the demographic structure and social order of the city underwent significant changes. However, thanks to the ad­ ministrative policies of Mehmet the Conqueror, the freedoms of people with different ethnic identities and beliefs were protected. And this is an indication of the flexible policies imple­ mented by the Ottomans towards the conquered communities. In Ottoman urbanization, “sanjak/city code of laws” specific to each conquered region were prepared. This understanding shows that great importance was attached to the local conditions and previous cultural traditions of the region. The code of Laws would took into account the Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 26 27 demographics and local customs of the region, thus would ensure the preservation and integra­ tion of local traditions during the establishment of a new order under Ottoman rule. The development of Ottoman municipalism during the modernization process was char­ acterized by various reforms and innovations. Tanzimat Reform Era is a period in which mod­ ern municipalism understanding began to take shape in the Ottoman Empire. During this pe­ riod, important changes were implemented in Local Governments and urbanization with mod­ els borrowed from Europe and new institutions were established for the administration of cities and the development of infrastructure services. These reforms led to significant improvements in the social and physical structure of Ottoman cities. Ottoman urbanism and municipalism are the reflection of the understanding of local ad­ ministration that developed under the influence of Europe in the process of reshaping the social and cultural texture of the conquered regions and modernization. After the Tanzimat (Reorganisation), impor­ tant steps were taken in urbanism and public services with the establishment of institutions such as Istanbul Sehremaneti and Altinci Daire-i Belediye (The Sixth Municipality Department). During this period, Ottoman municipality structure was characterized by the integration of traditional institutions such as foundations, guilds, neighborhoods and qadi (muslim judge) courts into the modern municipality structure. 1.1.1. The First Local Government Structure The first local government structures in the Ot­ toman Empire consisted of a complex system established to effectively manage the expanding territory of the state. This system had a central­ ized state structure as well as a flexible struc­ ture that could adapt to local characteristics and needs. The first local government structures be­ gan to take shape in the early Ottoman period and they evolved into a system that supports the social and economic structure of the empire. The Ottoman administrative system consisted mainly of sanjaks and provinces (eyalet). Each sanjak and province was being governed by a Beylerbeyi or sanjakbeyi (governor of a sanjak). These administrators were the people appointed by the central government and were usually cho­ sen from among military leaders. These admin­ istrative figures were responsible for the duties such as ensuring justice at the local level, col­ lecting taxes, and maintaining security and pub­ lic order. As the basic unit of local administra­ tions, there was a mukhtar (headman) system in villages and neighborhoods. The first municipality building of the Ottoman Empire built by Sultan Abdulhamid Khan, Istanbul, 2015 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 28 29 Mukhtars were individuals elected by local com­ munities and assigned to manage the internal af­ fairs of the neighborhood or village. This system served as a mechanism to ensure the Ottoman administration to be responsive to the needs of communities at local level. The Ottoman local administration system also included various foundation institutions. The foundations played an important role in the provision of social services. For example, pub­ lic services such as education, health care and maintenance of waterways were being financed and managed through the foundations. This was an important tool for the Ottoman administra­ tion in ensuring social welfare and meeting the needs of the people. With the modernization efforts, the Ottoman local administration structure underwent sig­ nificant changes from the mid-19th century. With Imperial Edict of Reorganization (Tanzimat Fermani) (1839) and the subsequent reforms, important steps were taken towards a more modern and centralized structure in Local Gov­ ernments. In this period, innovations such as the establishment of municipalities and the adoption of modern management approaches in urban administration made significant contributions to the modernization of the Ottoman local admin­ istration system. The first local administration organizations in the Ottoman Empire adopted a balanced manage­ ment approach in terms of both strengthening the central authority and the capacity to meet the needs of the society at the local level. This system played a critical role in ensuring social and economic stability across the vast and di­ verse territory of the empire. In this period, in addition to traditional institutions such as foun­ dations, guilds and neighborhoods, institutions such as Sehremaneti were established in the modern sense and important steps were taken in the regulation of urbanism and public services. The newly established institutions functioned as the main structures that organize the social and economic structure of Ottoman cities and pro­ vide public services such as health, education and infrastructure. 1.1.2. Sehremaneti Institution and Altinci Daire-i Belediye (The Sixth Municipality Department) Sehremaneti and Altinci Daire-i Belediye (The Sixth Municipality Department) were important in­ stitutions where the foundations of modern municipality approach were laid in the Ottoman Empire. Sehremaneti Institution: It was an official entity established to regulate city administration in the Ottoman Empire. This insti­ tution pioneered the implemen­ tation of modern management techniques in the administration of cities, especially after the Tanzimat (Reorganizations) Pe­ riod. Sehremaneti played a key role in the organization of city life by operating in many are­ as such as the coordination of urban services, infrastructure works, health and cleaning ser­ vices. Historic Kadıköy Municipality Building by Architect Yervant Terziyan, Istanbul, 1930 Sehremaneti Beyoğlu Department, Istanbul, 1930s Sehremaneti Eminönü Department, Istanbul, 1930s Opening ceremony of the Fatih Office of the Sehremaneti, Istanbul, 1910s Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 30 31 Altinci Daire-i Belediye (The Sixth Municipality Department) Altinci Daire-i Belediye, one of the first municipal organizations of the Ottoman Empire, is consid­ ered the pioneer of modern municipalism. This municipal organization, founded in 1857 in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, implemented in­ novative practices in the field of urbanism and municipalism. Altinci Daire-i Belediye was par­ ticularly involved in the organization of public services, urban planning and infrastructure de­ velopment projects. This institution set the basic principles of the municipal laws enacted in the second half of the 19th century and served as a model for other municipalities in the Ottoman territories. The establishment of Altinci Daire-i Belediye is an important turning point showing that munici­ palism understanding of the Ottoman Empire entered the process of modernization. This in­ stitution played a pioneering role in the adapta­ tion of the Western-inspired modern urban un­ derstanding to Ottoman cities. As a part of the reform movements that began with the Tanzimat Edict, Sehremaneti and Altinci Daire-i Belediye enabled the beginning of a new era in Ottoman urbanism and shaped the works carried out in this field. 1.2. Municipalism in the Republican Era Municipalism in the Republican Era refers to the process of modernizing the municipalism struc­ ture inherited from the Ottoman Empire. With the proclamation of the Republic, understanding and practices of municipalities in Türkiye under­ went significant changes. The reforms and prac­ tices in this era laid the foundations of today’s understanding and practices of the municipali­ ties. This period witnessed the urbanization and municipal activities based on more planned, sys­ tematic and scientific foundations. The innovative and planned approach adopted Altıncı Dâire-i Belediye, Istanbul Construction of Istanbul City Hall and the tram passing in front of it, Istanbul Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 32 33 Empowerment of the Financial Structure of Municipalities Steps were taken to strengthen the financial structures of municipalities to enable them to provide effective services. For this purpose, var­ ious sources of revenue were allocated to munic­ ipalities and municipalities’ financial rights were increased. Urban Transformation and Environmental Awareness Since the second half of the 20th century, urban transformation projects and raising awareness for environmental protection have been among the important elements of the municipalism of the Republican Era. In this process, various pro­ jects were implemented to improve the quality of life in cities and support sustainable develop­ ment. since the early years of the Republic also played a critical role in the modernization and develop­ ment of the cities of Türkiye. 1.2.1. Outlines of Municipalism in the Republican Era Legal Regulations and Structural Reforms Since the early years of the Republic, legal reg­ ulations on municipalities were made and the structure of municipalities was reorganized. Urban Planning and Infrastructure Development In the Republican era, great im­ portance was attached to urban planning and urban infrastruc­ ture works. During this period, comprehensive city plans were prepared and implemented in various cities across Türkiye, particularly in Ankara. The plan­ ning activities aimed to develop cities in a healthy, orderly and aesthetic way. Development of Social Municipalism The municipalism in the Republican era was not limited to infrastructure and urbanization; social municipalism was also adopted during this peri­ od. In this regard, public services were provided in areas such as education, health, culture and sports. The Municipality Law adopted in 1930 rede­ fined the duties and responsibilities of mu­ nicipalities and laid the foundation of municipal activities. Sultanbeyli / Istanbul Oruçreis Urban Transformation Project, Kayseri Süleymaniye Mehmet Tuz Swimming Pool, Şanlıurfa Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 34 1.2.2. Municipality Law and Subsequent Developments Municipalism in the Republican period entered a new era with the adoption of the Municipali­ ty Law in 1930. This law aimed to establish the structure, duties and powers of municipalities on a modern basis and to ensure that municipalities provide services in a more efficient and organized way. As part of the Republic’s modernization and urbanization policies, the Municipal Law provid­ ed a framework to support the healthy, planned and orderly development of cities. Important Features of the Municipality Law Regulation of the Management Structure The Law ensured that municipalities have a structure in line with democratic governance approach by regulating the election, duties and powers of local administration bodies such as the mayor and the municipality council. Determination of Duties and Responsibilities The main duties and responsibilities of munic­ ipalities were expanded to include urban plan­ ning, infrastructure services, health, education, environmental protection and social services. Empowerment of Financial Structure Regulations were introduced to strengthen the financial structures of municipalities, to enable them to generate their own sources of income and to provide services separately from the cen­ tral government. Belediye Kanunu’nun kabulü sonrasında, Tür­ Developments after the Municipality Law Following the adoption of the Municipality Law, Türkiye has experienced a number of develop­ ments in urban transformation, urban planning and municipalism. The innovations introduced by the Law have enabled municipalities to con­ tribute more effectively to the development of cities. Urban Planning and Infrastructure Investments Municipalities attached great importance to ur­ ban planning and infrastructure investments and carried out efforts to create modern and healthy living spaces. Social Municipalism In addition to social aids and services, municipal­ ities worked to improve the citizens’ life quality by supporting culture, arts and sports activities. Environmental Protection and Increasing Green Spaces The municipalities, acting with an awareness of environmental protection and sustainable devel­ opment, took measures to increase green areas in cities and prevent environmental pollution. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 35 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 36 37 1.2.3. Metropolitan Municipality System in Türkiye The Metropolitan Municipality system in Türkiye was introduced in the mid-1980s with the aim of restructuring local governments and improving the understanding of urban management. The Metropolitan Municipality Law was first adopt­ ed in 1984 and established a new local admin­ istration model in large-scaled cities of Türkiye. With this law, it is aimed to provide local services more effectively and efficiently in cities with large populations and sprawling large territories and to adopt a holistic planning and management approach in fields such as urban transportation, infrastructure, environment and urban planning. Management Structure Metropolitan municipalities have a centralized administrative structure and work with the met­ ropolitan mayor, municipality council and district municipalities. While the mayor of the metropol­ itan municipality has responsibility for the met­ ropolitan area as a whole, district municipalities are responsible for carrying out specific services within their borders. Expansion of the Service Areas Metropolitan municipalities provide a wide range of services such as transportation, infrastruc­ ture, environmental management, urban plan­ ning and social services. With this law, it is aimed to provide services more effectively by ensuring holistic planning and coordination throughout the city. Main Features of the Metropolitan Municipality Law Financial Structure Metropolitan municipalities have their own sources of revenue and use them for the financ­ ing of city-wide services. They can also receive support and resources from the central govern­ ment. Planning and Development Metropolitan municipalities have the authori­ ty to carry out comprehensive city-wide urban planning and development projects. Thus, large- scale works such as urban transformation, de­ velopment of transportation systems and social infrastructure projects are undertaken with a ho­ listic approach. The Metropolitan Municipality Law and subsequent regulations were designed to find solutions to the complex urban problems faced by metropolitan cities in Türkiye, to ensure the sustainable devel­ opment of cities and to provide quality services to citizens. This law is seen as an important step towards improving the quality of life of people living in metro­ politan areas and it has a critical role in the development of urban management and planning in Türkiye. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 38 39 1.2.4. Municipality Approach After 1994 The understanding of municipalism in Türkiye after 1994 represents a period characterized by significant transformations and reforms. This period is important in terms of making munici­ palities more effective, transparent and partici­ patory, improving urban infrastructure and ser­ vices, and adopting holistic approaches in urban planning. The post-1994 transforma­ tion in the understanding of municipalism in Türkiye is closely related to the vision and practices of the promi­ nent mayors of the period, such as the President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The term of Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who took office in 1994 as the Mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Mu­ nicipality pioneered the change of Istanbul’s ap­ pearance and beginning of a new era in the under­ standing of municipalism. Restructuring in the Municipalities The post-1994 period began with re­ forms in municipalities. During this period, the revenue sources of munic­ ipalities were expanded, and they were given more say in decision-making pro­ cesses. In addition, mechanisms were strengthened to make municipalities more transparent and accountable. Urban Transformation and Infrastructure Projects After 1994, municipalities in Türkiye gave great importance to urban trans­ formation projects and infrastructure developments. The risk of earthquakes, the problem of shanty houses and the need for urban renewal were among the prioritized agenda items for the munic­ ipalities. During this period, basic in­ frastructure services such as transpor­ tation, water and sewerage systems, green areas and social facilities were significantly improved. Participatory Municipalism and Social Services In the post-1994 period, the partic­ ipatory management approach was strengthened in the service delivery of local administrations. The municipalism in Türkiye in 1994 and afterwards can be characterized by the following main fea­ tures and develop­ ments: Mayor of İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Nurettin Topçu Primary School, Istanbul, 1998 Mayor of İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his wife Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, 3rd Local Governments Festival, Ankara, 1997 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 40 41 Municipalities encouraged the active participa­ tion of city residents in decision-making pro­ cesses and worked to improve the quality of life of the population through various social, cultur­ al and educational programs. In addition, social municipal activities such as social aid and sup­ port services, services for the disabled and el­ derly people were also expanded. Environmental Management and Sustainability In the post-1994 period, municipalities, particu­ larly in Istanbul, focused more on environmental issues in line with increasing awareness of envi­ ronmental protection and sustainable develop­ ment goals. Important steps were taken in waste management, water conservation, energy effi­ ciency and protection of green areas. Municipal­ ities contributed to the sustainable development of cities by promoting environmentally friendly practices and projects. Utilization of Technology and Digitalization In the post-1994 period, the role of technology and digitalization in municipal services expand­ ed. E-municipality and smart city applications have made services faster, more efficient and easily accessible. Municipalities have increased their interaction with citizens through various online platforms and applications and devel­ oped innovative solutions in service delivery. 1.3. Current Approaches of Municipalism in Türkiye Current approaches in municipalism in Türkiye are constantly evolving and being renewed in or­ der to respond to today’s rapidly changing so­ cial, economic and environmental needs. These approaches are shaped around basic principles such as compliance with sustainable develop­ ment goals, integration of technological innova­ tions, participatory governance models and sen­ sitivity to environmental issues. Prominent current approaches to municipalism in Türkiye: Sustainable Urbanization and Urban Transformation Sustainable urbanization aims at the balanced development of cities in terms of economic, social and environmental aspects. The munic­ ipalities in Türkiye prioritize energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and green buildings by conducting urban transformation projects with­ in the framework of sustainability principles. In addition, projects for the development of alter­ native forms of transportation such as public transport and bicycle lanes contribute to reduc­ ing the carbon footprint of cities. Image of a completed phase of Esenler Municipality Urban Transformation Project, 2023 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 42 43 Smart City Applications Municipalities in Türkiye attach great importance to smart city applications that aim to use tech­ nology effectively in the management of city ser­ vices. In this context, technological tools such as data analytics, IoT (Internet of Things), artificial intelligence and mobile applications are used in areas such as transportation, waste manage­ ment, water conservation and management of public areas. Participatory Municipalism and Governance Participatory municipalism is an approach that encourages the active participation of the public in the decision-making processes of local admin­ istration. Municipalities receive citizens’ opin­ ions and suggestions through public assemblies, online surveys, public meetings and social media platforms and use this information to shape poli­ cies and projects. Participatory Municipalism and Governance Participatory municipalism is an approach that encourages the active participation of the public in the decision-making processes of local admin­ istration. Municipalities receive citizens’ opin­ ions and suggestions through public assemblies, online surveys, public meetings and social media platforms and use this information to shape poli­ cies and projects. Social Municipalism and Inclusive Approach Municipalities adopt an inclusive municipalism approach by providing social services for disad­ vantaged groups of the society. Health, educa­ tion, employment and social support programs designed for people with disabilities, the elderly people, children and low-income families are an important part of municipalities’ service range. Current municipal approaches are constantly being developed and renewed to meet the chal­ lenges faced by Turkish cities and to deliver a higher quality of life for their inhabitants. Ahmet Mergen Park and Sports Facility, Keçiören / Ankara akillisehirkocaeli.com / Website Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 44 45 In this process, municipalities’ adoption of prin­ ciples such as innovation, environmental sensi­ tivity and public service orientation plays a criti­ cal role in shaping the future of urban life. In conclusion, municipalism in Türkiye is the product of a deep-rooted and con­ stantly evolving adventure. The munici­ palism concept, which has been shaped since the Ottoman Empire, entered a new transformation process with the estab­ lishment of the Republic of Türkiye. The traditional governance structures inher­ ited from the Ottoman Empire were re­ shaped in line with modernization and westernization efforts with the procla­ mation of the Republic, and important reforms were realized in the fields of ur­ banism and public services. The Municipality Law adopted in 1930 laid the foundations of local administrations in line with modern standards and redefined the duties, powers and responsibilities of municipalities. The practice of metropolitan municipalism has introduced a new approach to the management of cities with large populations and sprawling large territories. This era aimed at the sustaina­ ble development of cities, planned urbanization and comprehensive service provision. After 1994, the transformation in the municipal­ ism approach witnessed a more effective, trans­ parent and public service-oriented operations of local administrations. Elements such as urban transformation projects, social municipalism practices, environmental protection efforts and the integration of technol­ ogy constitute the foundation stones of munici­ palism in today’s Türkiye. Today, municipalism is shaped within the frame­ work of up-to-date approaches such as sustain­ able urbanism, smart city practices, participa­ tory governance, environmental protection and social inclusiveness. These approaches aim to generate innovative and effective solutions to the challenges faced by cities and their inhabitants. To achieve these goals, the municipalities adopt a management approach that takes into account technological innovations, environmental sensi­ tivity and social needs, and play a critical role in urban transformation and development of Tür­ kiye. Digital Transformation and Competency Development Center, Sultanbeyli / İstanbul Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 47 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 48 49 SECTION TWO DEMOCRATIZATION AND MUNICIPALITIES M aking a comprehensive analysis on the democratization process in Türkiye and the impact of municipalities on this process requires much more than a few paragraphs. Thus, this study on municipalism aims to provide a broad perspective, including historical development, analysis of the current situation, challenges faced and proposed solutions. 2.1. Historical Perspective: Municipalities and Democratization in Türkiye The democratization and evolution of local gov­ ernments in Türkiye dates back to the late Otto­ man Empire period and the establishment of the Republic. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 50 51 Modernization and efforts to transition from centralism to decentralization that started in the last years of the Ottoman Empire continued in different forms in the Re­ publican period. While a centralist ad­ ministration approach prevailed in the early years of the Republic, especially the alignment process with the Eu­ ropean Union after the 1980s paved the way for important steps towards democratization and participation in municipalities. The historical development of munic­ ipalities and the democratization pro­ cess in Türkiye is closely related to the evolution of the country’s political and administrative structure. This process starts from the late Ottoman Empire period and extends to the Republican period and the present day. Within this framework, each period contains different dynamics, challenges, and transformation processes in itself. 2.1.1. From the Ottoman Empire to the Republic: Modernization and Transformation in Municipalities In the late period of the Ottoman Empire, the modernization process was initiated with re­ forms such as the Tanzimat (Reorganization) Edict (1839) and the Islahat (Reform) Edict (1856). With these reforms, an important basis was laid for increasing the participation of the people in the gov­ ernance processes and modernizing the administration. With the establishment of the Republic, the gover­ nance structure in Türkiye underwent a radical trans­ formation. A strong cen­ tral government structure was established in the early years of the Republic and municipalities were given limited powers. Ensuring national unity and integrity, modernization and nation- building efforts were among the primary objectives in this period. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 52 53 Harmonization with the norms and standards of the European Union requires increased transpar­ ency, accountability and increasing participation in local governments and this plays an important role in Türkiye’s democratization process. In summary, the historical development of municipalities and the democratiza­ tion process in Türkiye involves a com­ plex and dynamic process that extends from the late Ottoman Empire period to the present day. This process reflects the transformation of the political, social and economic structure of Türkiye at both na­ tional and local levels. The empowerment of local governments and the democra­ tization process, together with Türkiye’s European Union integration efforts, are critical to the country’s progress towards a modern, democratic, and participatory governance concept. This period also of­ fers important opportunities in terms of increasing public participation in gov­ ernance processes, strengthening local democracy, and supporting community development. 2.2. Democratic Participation In the post-1980 period, various mechanisms were developed to increase public participation in municipal decision-making processes. In this period, strengthening local democracy and in­ 2.1.2. Municipalities During the Democratization Process Since the 1980s, especially with the impact of the process of adaptation to the European Un­ ion, some important steps have been taken to­ wards democratization in Türkiye and the grant­ ing of more powers to municipalities in terms of local government. In this regard, with the legal arrangements made in the late 1980s and early 1990s, local governments were granted more fi­ nancial and administrative rights. Various mech­ anisms have also been developed to increase public participation in the decision-making pro­ cesses of local governments. 2.1.3. The European Union Process and Strengthening Local Governments The process of alignment to the European Union accelerated the efforts for democratization and empowerment of municipalities in Türkiye. This process encouraged the transfer of more powers and resources to municipalities, empow­ erment of municipalities and more active pub­ lic participation in decision-making processes. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 54 55 creasing the transparency and accountability of local governments came to the fore. Strengthening municipalities and increasing democratic participation are considered an im­ portant part of the democratization process in Türkiye. Some important aspects of this process and its practices in Türkiye are detailed below: 2.2.1. Increasing the Rights Granted to Municipalities The regulations in this period strengthened the capacity of municipalities to create their own sources of income, manage their budget and make more independent decisions in the provi­ sion of services at the local level. This process is of critical importance for municipalities to man­ age their own resources effectively and to devel­ op projects in line with local needs. 2.2.2. Encouraging Public Participation in Decision Making Processes The contribution of local governments to the democratization process is not only limited to financial and administrative rights. Ensuring the active participation of the public in deci­ sion-making processes at the local level is also a part of this process. For this purpose, various mechanisms such as neighborhood assemblies, public meetings and referendums were devel­ oped. Such practices ensure that local people have a say in decisions concerning their commu­ nities and increase the legitimacy of decisions taken by local governments. 2.2.3. Strengthening Local Democracy Strengthening local democracy is closely re­ lated to increasing public participation in deci­ sion-making processes. Increasing the transpar­ ency and accountability of municipalities builds public trust in governance processes and en­ courages democratic participation. Clear com­ munication of decisions taken by municipalities, making how these decisions were reached un­ derstandable, and being open to public feed­ back are essential for a healthy local democracy. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 56 57 2.2.4. Exemplary Practices and Projects Various exemplary practices and projects have been imple­ mented in Türkiye to strengthen local governments and increase democratic participation. Among these projects there are the establishment of digital platforms that diversify municipalities’ channels of interaction with the public, participatory budgeting practices that enable the public to have a direct say in local pro­ jects, and workshops on developing local development strate­ gies. Such practices contribute to the invigoration of democratic processes at the local level by strengthening the interaction be­ tween municipalities and the public. These efforts are important in terms of improving municipal service provision, increasing public trust in governance pro­ cesses, and encouraging com­ munity participation. 2.3. Local Development and Democratization The contribution of municipali­ ties to the democratization pro­ cess is also considered from a local development perspective. Local development is not lim­ ited to economic growth, but also includes dimensions such as social justice, equity and en­ vironmental sustainability. The establishment of regional devel­ opment agencies in Türkiye and supporting the projects of lo­ cal governments are important steps in this direction. Through development agencies, local govern­ ments develop and implement projects that pro­ mote economic and social development on a lo­ cal level. Dimensions of Local Development Local development includes the economic growth as well as the social, cultural and environmental well-being of a region or local community. This multidimensional approach considers the needs of all segments of society and aims for an inclu­ sive development model. Economic Growth: It means invigorating local economies, creating new job opportunities, en­ couraging local production and entrepreneur­ ship. Social Justice and Equality: This includes meet­ ing the needs of disadvantaged groups, increas­ ing their access to education and health services, and strengthening social services. Environmental Sustainability: It includes the protection of natural resources, encouraging en­ vironmentally friendly technologies, sustainable urbanization, and infrastructure projects. The Role of Regional Development Agencies The regional development agencies in Türkiye have a central role in local development efforts. These agencies provide coordination of policies at local and national level, and implement local projects by financing them. It also serves im­ portant functions in building local capacity and Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 58 59 bringing local actors together. Regional develop­ ment agencies also help local level initiatives to create synergies by promoting cooperation be­ tween local governments, the private sector, civil society organizations and academic institutions. Supporting Local Government Projects Local governments, with the support they re­ ceive through development agencies, develop and implement projects that promote economic and social development at the local level. Among these projects; there are rural development, sup­ porting women and young entrepreneurs, boost­ ing local industry and tourism, green energy and environmental protection projects. The fact that local governments design these projects taking into account the needs and expectations of the public contributes to strengthening democrat­ ic participation and local decision-making pro­ cesses. Relationship between Local Development and Democratization The relationship between local development and democratization is based on the development and implementation of policies and projects in line with the needs and demands of local peo­ ple. The activities of local governments and re­ gional development agencies aim to improve the life quality of local people and strengthen social cohesion, while supporting participatory and transparent governance at the local level. This process also constitutes an important step to­ wards revitalizing local democracy and increas­ ing the accountability of local governments. As a result, local development and democratization are processes that support and reinforce each other. The steps taken in Türkiye in this regard have significant po­ tential to increase sustainable de­ velopment and democratic partic­ ipation at the local level. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 60 61 Capacity Deficiencies of Municipalities Capacity deficiencies of municipalities consti­ tute an important obstacle to effective manage­ ment and service delivery. Not having sufficient human resources, technical knowledge, and administrative capacity limits the ability of lo­ cal governments to respond to complex and di­ versifying local needs. In addition, this situation may prevent municipalities from developing and implementing innovative and sustainable devel­ opment projects. 2.4. Future Perspective Various suggestions can be offered to enable municipalities in Türkiye to contribute more ef­ fectively to the democratization process. These suggestions may include providing more resourc­ es to municipalities, creating new mechanisms to increase public participation in decision-making processes, providing training and advisory ser­ vices to increase the capacity of municipalities, and strengthening the transparency and ac­ countability of local governments. A series of strategic recommendations and fu­ ture perspectives can be developed to enable municipalities in Türkiye to contribute effectively to the democratization process and to ensure the sustainability of this process. These suggestions can help municipalities overcome the challenges they face and adopt a more effective, participa­ tory, and transparent management approach in service provision. Providing Resources for Municipalities Making legal and administrative arrangements to strengthen the capacity of municipalities to increase their own revenues is important. In this regard, efforts such as setting reasonable fees and tariffs for local services can also be taken into consideration. Increasing Public Participation in Decision Mak­ ing Processes Another important factor is the development and popularization of platforms and mecha­ nisms (e-participation tools, public meetings, referendums) to encourage public participation in local decision-making processes. Citizens can be informed through information and training programs on how they can participate and con­ tribute to local governance processes. Increasing the Capacity of Municipalities Training and Consultancy Services: Training and consultancy services can be provided to increase the capacity of municipal staff in management, financing, project development and public rela­ tions. Good Practice Sharing: It may be useful to cre­ ate and promote platforms for sharing success­ ful municipal practices with other municipalities. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 62 63 2.5. Strengthening Transparency and Accountability Open Governance Practices: The adoption of open governance practices that will ensure that municipal activities and decision-making pro­ cesses are open and accessible to citizens will reinforce trust by citizens. Independent Audit Mechanisms: Regular audits of municipalities’ financial and administrative operations by independent audit mechanisms and sharing their findings and recommendations with the public will increase transparency. Future Perspective To implement these recommendations in order for municipalities to contribute more effectively to the democratization process will improve the quality of service provision by municipalities and strengthen public trust and participation in local government processes. Greater public partici­ pation in decision-making processes and ensur­ ing transparency and accountability will contrib­ ute to deepening the democratization process in Türkiye and promoting local development in a sustainable manner in the long term. This pro­ cess will also support Türkiye’s efforts to align with European Union norms and standards and increase its competitiveness in the international arena. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 65 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 66 67 SECTION 3 PARTICIPATORY MUNICIPAL APPROACHES AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES 3.1. Theoretical Framework of Participatory Municipal Administration Models P articipatory municipalism is a governance model that strengthens democracy by en­ suring the direct participation of citizens in the decision-making processes of municipalities and increases transparency and accountability. This model increases the influence of citizens on municipalities and ensures that the services and Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 68 69 Participatory Budgeting City Councils Digital Platforms Main Features of the Metropolitan Municipality Law Participatory Budgeting Participatory municipalism practices in Türkiye allow citizens to be involved in local government processes through various methods. Citizens can actively participate in the processes of de­ termining local projects. This model increases the interest and participation of citizens in local governments, while ensuring that local services become more appropriate to the needs. City Councils The city councils, which bring together repre­ sentatives of municipalities, civil society organ­ izations, professional chambers and citizens, provide platforms for discussion and deci­ sion-making on local policies and projects. These councils increase diversity and participation in local government decision-making processes. Digital Platforms Digital participation platforms developed by municipalities facilitate citizens’ participation in municipal governance processes. Via these plat­ forms, citizens can communicate their views and suggestions directly to municipalities, receive in­ formation about local projects and participate in various surveys and voting. projects of local governments are better aligned with the needs and expectations of society. Par­ ticipatory municipalism practices in Türkiye have been put into practice in various forms in recent years. In this section, the theoretical framework of participatory municipalism models and suc­ cessful examples from Türkiye will be discussed. 3.1.1. Participatory Municipality Practices in Türkiye Participatory municipality practices in Türkiye enable citizens to be included in local govern­ ment processes by various methods. Some of these practices are: Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 70 71 3.1.2. Exemplary Practices In Türkiye, participatory municipalism practices have been adopted and successfully implement­ ed by many municipalities. The municipalism approach implemented especially after 1994 is recognized as an important turning point in the municipalism concept in Türkiye. This peri­ od comes to the fore with the adoption of a new approach in many metropolitan municipalities, especially Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The practices of municipalities in this period are noteworthy in terms of strengthening the partic­ ipatory municipalism approach and encouraging citizen participation. These practices contrib­ ute to the strengthening of local democracy by enabling citizens to be more involved in deci­ sion-making processes of local governments. Here are Some Successful Examples of Participatory Municipalism from Türkiye Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality In the post-1994 period, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality developed various projects and platforms to increase citizen participation in lo­ cal government processes. Participatory munici­ palism practices, which began in this period and developed in the following years, aimed to find innovative solutions to Istanbul’s complex urban management problems and to make citizens’ voices heard more effectively. Participatory Projects and Platforms City Councils and Neighborhood Assemblies Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality encouraged citizen participation in local government pro­ cesses through city councils and neighborhood assemblies. These structures functioned as plat­ forms that sought solutions to various problems of the city and enabled the direct participation of citizens in shaping policies and projects. Digital Participation Tools By following technological developments, Istan­ bul Metropolitan Municipality developed digital platforms to facilitate citizens’ interaction with the municipality. Through these platforms, cit­ izens can directly submit their complaints and suggestions, receive information about the ser­ vices and projects offered by the municipality, and contribute to the management of the city by participating in various surveys. Participatory Budgeting Applications The municipality in Istanbul also included prac­ tices of allocating budgets for specific projects and services based on citizens’ suggestions and preferences. As a result, citizens can have a say in projects that directly affect the environment in which they live. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 72 73 Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality has cre­ ated a participatory budgeting platform called “Gaziantep’te Ben de Varim” to encourage cit­ izen participation in municipal decision-making processes. Through this platform, citizens can get information, share their opinions and vote on projects planned to be realized in various parts of the city. This process allows the municipality to shape its projects according to the needs and preferences of citizens. Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Bursa Metropolitan Municipality initiated “Neigh­ borhood Assemblies” to ensure citizens’ partici­ pation in local governance processes. The neigh­ borhood assemblies function as a participatory platform where residents come together to dis­ cuss the problems of the neighborhood, devel­ op proposals and communicate these proposals directly to local governments. This practice al­ lows residents to directly contribute to decisions about their own living environment. “Gaziantep’te Ben de Varim” Platform “Neighborhood Assemblies” Konya Metropolitan Municipality Konya Metropolitan Municipality developed the "Konya Smart City Application", which enables citizens to obtain information about municipal services and projects, communicate their opin­ ions and suggestions, and benefit from various municipal services online. This application aims to increase the transparency and accessibility of municipal services. Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality initiated the “Sakarya Innovative Ideas Platform” where inno­ vative ideas about the city are shared and dis­ cussed. This platform is designed to ensure the direct participation of citizens in city manage­ ment and to develop innovative projects that will contribute to the social and economic develop­ ment of the city. "Konya Smart City Application" “Sakarya Innovative Ideas Platform” Gölyaka Neighborhood - Neighborhood Assembly Meeting, Orhangazi / Bursa, 2018 konya.bel.tr / Website Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 74 75 Malatya Metropolitan Municipality Malatya Metropolitan Municipality developed various participatory decision-making mech­ anisms to enable citizens to make their voices heard more effectively in municipal governance processes. In this regard, through various plat­ forms and events established within the mu­ nicipality, the citizens can directly convey their opinions and suggestions on issues related to the management and development of the city to the municipal administration and contribute to the development and implementation of projects. Especially the “Public Meetings” and “Work­ shops” organized by the municipality provide important platforms for citizens to communicate directly with municipal administrators and ex­ change ideas on various issues of the city. These meetings allow residents to actively discuss and propose solutions for their neighborhoods and city-wide issues. “Participatory Decision- Making Mechanisms” In addition, Malatya Metropolitan Municipality encourages citizens’ participation through var­ ious digital tools and social media platforms, collects the views of residents through online surveys and opinion platforms, and incorporates these views into the development of municipal management policies. These kinds of participatory decision-making mechanisms help municipalities to develop ser­ vices that are more responsive to citizens’ needs and expectations, strengthen local democracy and increase social cohesion among various seg­ ments of society. The practices of the Malatya Metropolitan Municipality are among the exam­ ples that demonstrate the diversity and potential of efforts to increase citizen participation. As a result, the success of participatory municipalism practices shows that citizen participation in municipal governance processes should be seen not only as a democratic principle, but also as a way to improve the quality and efficiency of municipal services. The examples from Türkiye indicate how municipalities can engage citizens in and benefit from citizen participation in a variety of innovative ways. These examples also demonstrate that partici­ patory municipalism practices can be successful not only through the cooperation of municipali­ ties and citizens, but also through municipalities adopting the principles of transparency and ac­ countability in their internal processes. Workshop on Integrated Urban Water Management, Malatya Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 76 77 The efforts of municipalities to involve citizens in decision-making processes lay the foundations for more participatory, fair and sustainable local governance models, not only for current genera­ tions but also for future generations. It is important for municipalities in Türkiye to further expand and deepen participatory munic­ ipalism practices in order to further strengthen local democracy for the future. This process can be supported through the effective use of tech­ nological innovations and digital participation tools, capacity building efforts of local govern­ ments and the promotion of active citizen par­ ticipation in the processes. Participatory municipalism models and suc­ cessful practices in Türkiye help municipalities to provide services that are more responsive to the needs and expectations of the community by enabling stronger cooperation and dialogue be­ tween municipalities and citizens. This approach should be seen not only as a model of govern­ ance for municipalities in Türkiye, but also as a tool to increase social development and welfare. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 79 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 80 81 SECTION 4 SMART MUNICIPALISM AND ITS REFLECTIONS ON CITIZENS N owadays, the rapid development of tech­ nology and innovation is transforming every aspect of city life. This transformation also in­ cludes how municipalities deliver services and how citizens access these services. “Smart Mu­ nicipalism” stands out as a management ap­ proach pioneered by this new period and offers solutions towards making cities more sustaina­ ble, accessible and livable. Smart city applica­ tions bring innovations in a wide range of areas, from traffic to waste management, from ener­ gy saving to citizens’ participation in the deci­ sion-making processes of municipalities, and significantly improve the life quality of citizens. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 82 83 The impact of technology and innovation on mu­ nicipalism, the scope of smart city applications and their impact on the life quality of citizens will be examined in detail in this section. This anal­ ysis, enriched with examples from Türkiye, will demonstrate how smart municipality practices make a difference in practice and what potential they have for municipalities in the future. 4.1. Impact of Technology and Innovation on Municipalities The rapid advancement of technology and inno­ vation has caused significant changes in service delivery styles of municipalities. Smart munici­ palism refers to municipalities providing servic­ es in a more effective, efficient and participatory way by using technology. This approach aims to improve city management using technologies such as data analytics, internet-based servic­ es, mobile applications and IoT (the Internet of Things). The integration of technology and inno­ vation in municipalities offers new opportunities to meet citizens’ expectations faster and more accurately. 4.1.1. Smart City Applications and Their Impact on Citizens’ Life Quality Smart city applications improve the quality of life of people living in cities significantly. These applications can be utilized in many areas such as traffic management, smart lighting systems, waste management, efficient use of water re­ sources, energy saving and emergency manage­ ment. Traffic Management and Transportation Smart traffic management sys­ tems reduce transportation durations within the city and lower carbon emissions by op­ timizing traffic flow. The appli­ cations include real-time traf­ fic information systems, smart parking solutions and mobile applications for public trans­ portation. These solutions ena­ ble citizens to save time in their daily lives and improve their transportation experience. Energy and Environmen­ tal Management Smart lighting and energy man­ agement systems play a major role in reducing the carbon footprint of cities by reducing energy consumption. The in­ tegration of smart grids and renewable energy sources in­ creases energy efficiency and supports a sustainable city life. Thanks to smart city solutions, citizens have the opportunity to live in a safer, cleaner, greener and more sustainable environ­ ment. Smart Intersection, Bursa Smart Lighting, Konya Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 84 85 Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality The “Intelligent Light­ ing System” imple­ mented by Kocaeli Metropolitan Munic­ ipality offers an envi­ ronmentally friendly solution by minimiz­ ing energy consump­ tion. This system au­ tomatically adjusts light levels in certain areas of the city ac­ cording to demand, avoiding unneces­ sary energy use. The system saves energy and reduces carbon emis­ sions as well. Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Bursa Metropolitan Municipality’s “My Bursam” applica­ tion enables citi­ zens to access all kinds of informa­ tion about the mu­ nicipality and easily communicate their complaints and suggestions. Efficiency in Public Services Smart water management systems reduce loss of water and optimize water consumption. Smart waste management systems contribute to envi­ ronmental sustainability by making waste collec­ tion and recycling processes more efficient. Citizen Participation and Access to Services Smart municipality practices facilitate citizens’ interaction with local governments. E-munic­ ipality services allow citizens to perform many municipal procedures without leaving their homes. These applications increase citizens’ participation in the operational processes of mu­ nicipalities and facilitate access to the services. 4.1.2. Exemplary Practices Smart municipality practices ensure that the ser­ vices provided by municipalities are citizen-ori­ ented by utilizing the power of technology and innovation. Smart city solutions will continue to play a critical role in overcoming the many chal­ lenges that cities will face in the future. Many concrete examples can be given from Tür­ kiye regarding the reflection of smart municipal­ ity practices on citizens and the impact of tech­ nology and innovation on local governments. Some of these are given below; Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 86 87 The application allows citizens to report city-related incidents, re­ ceive information about municipal services and events, and even be informed about issues such as city council decisions. These examples demonstrate how smart municipalities are improving the quality of citizens’ daily lives and how municipalities are transform­ ing the way of their service delivery. Thanks to technology and innova­ tion, municipalities can develop citi­ zen-oriented services and cities be­ come more livable, sustainable and effectively managed. As a result, smart municipality applications cont­ ribute to improving the ways in which municipali­ ties deliver services in a wide range of fields, from traffic management to energy saving, from the ef­ ficiency of public services to the participation of citizens in decision-making processes. Projects realized in many cities provide concrete examples of how municipal services can be transformed by utilizing the power of technology. Through these applications, citi­ zens’ participation in the function­ ing of municipalities increases, ac­ cess to services is facilitated and innovative solutions are generated to various problems faced by cities. Smart municipalism also increases citizens’ trust in local governments by strengthening democratic values such as transparency and account­ ability. It is expected that in the future, local governments will continue their ef­ forts to improve the quality of life of citizens by further developing smart municipality applications. Contin­ uous follow-up of technological in­ novations and citizens’ needs will contribute to the sustainable devel­ opment of smart cities and improve the city life in Türkiye even more. Electric Bus, Samsun Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 89 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 90 91 SECTION 5 CULTURAL MUNICIPALISM AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES C ultural municipalism refers to the role of mu­ nicipalities in cultural activities, arts, history and heritage protection. Municipalities’ cultural policies not only enrich the social texture of cit­ ies, but also protect local identity and historical heritage. Furthermore, these policies increase inter-community interaction, support social co­ hesion and contribute to the tourism potential of cities. In this section, exemplary practices will be examined through municipalities’ cultural activi­ ties, social policies and strategies for protecting and promoting cultural heritage. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 92 93 5.1. Cultural Activities and Social Policies of Municipalities The municipalities revive the cultural life of cit­ ies by organizing culture and art festivals, ex­ hibitions, concerts, theater performances and similar events. These events ensure the active participation of citizens in cultural life and allow groups from different cultural backgrounds to come together. Strategies for the Protection and Promotion of Cultural Heritage The protection and promotion of cultural her­ itage is one of the important responsibilities of municipalities. Activities such as restoration of historical buildings, providing support to muse­ ums and art galleries, and putting cultural her­ itage on digital media are considered within this scope. For example, Gaziantep Municipality’s support for the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and Sa­ franbolu Municipality’s protection of its historic city center are successful examples of efforts to protect and promote the cultural heritage. 5.1.1. Exemplary Practices Municipalities in Türkiye implemented many suc­ cessful projects within the scope of cultural mu­ nicipalism. These projects generally focused on preserving the city’s historical and cultural herit­ age, supporting local arts and artists, organizing cultural events and increasing the brand value of cities. Here are some cultural municipalism ex­ amples from the municipalities: Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Gaziantep is included in the United Nations Ed­ ucational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network with its cui­ sine. Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality or­ ganizes various festivals, workshops and training programs to preserve and promote the city’s rich culinary culture. These efforts both preserve Ga­ ziantep’s cultural heritage and support gastron­ omy tourism. “Gastronomy Projects” Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 94 95 Konya Metropolitan Municipality Konya Metropolitan Municipality hosts many cultural and artistic events, especially the “Şeb-i Arus” ceremonies organized every year in mem­ ory of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi. These events reflect the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kon­ ya and increase the tourism potential of the city. The municipality also organizes various art gal­ leries and workshops that support local artists and young talents. “Konya Culture and Art Events” Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality undertakes various restoration and renovation projects to preserve and promote the rich historical herit­ age of the city. These projects include the resto­ ration of Kayseri Castle and the renovation of its surrounding historical buildings. The municipal­ ity also provides local and international visitors with the opportunity to discover the history of Kayseri by activities such as exhibitions and cul­ tural tours organized to promote historical and cultural values. “Kayseri Historical Heritage Projects” Restoration of Kayseri Castle, Kayseri 750th Vuslat Anniversary International Commemoration Ceremonies, "Şeb-i Arus", Konya Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 96 97 Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Bursa Metropolitan Municipality carries out ac­ tivities for the protection of cultural heritage in areas such as the historical bazaar and inns re­ gion, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, it contributes to the artistic and cultural life of the city by organizing important cultural events such as the Interna­ tional Bursa Festival and Bursa Book Fair. The municipality also strengthens the tourism poten­ tial of Bursa through projects that allow locals and tourists to experience the city’s historical and cultural richness. “Bursa Culture Art and Tourism Events” Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality organizes various events and projects to enrich the cul­ tural and social life of the city. In this regard, it supports many artistic activities such as theater, music, dance performances and exhibitions, and organizes cultural tours and festivals to promote Sakarya’s natural beauties and historical sites. “Sakarya Culture and Art Events” Photo Exhibition Depicting Çanakkale Naval Victory, Sakarya March 14th Medicine Day Week Kayseri, Bursa Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 98 99 In conclusion, cultural policies and pro­ jects of municipalities have a critical role in preserving and developing the social and cultural richness of cities. Cultural munic­ ipalism practices are considered in a wide range of areas such as protecting histori­ cal heritage, supporting culture and arts, increasing citizens’ participation in cultural activities and promoting cultural tourism. These practices increase the brand value of cities and create centers of attraction for local and international visitors. From Konya to Bursa, municipalities across Tür­ kiye are doing important works to protect and promote the cultural heritage of cities, engage citizens in social and cultural life and celebrate cultural diversity. While enriching the cultural texture of cities, these works also support social cohesion and social peace. Taking the future into consideration, the munici­ palities are expected to develop more innovative projects in the field of cultural municipalism, to use technology effectively in the protection and promotion of cultural heritage, and to further in­ crease citizen participation in these processes. As a result, the cultural and artistic life of cit­ ies will be further revived, historical and cultural heritage will be passed on to future generations, and the national and international recognition of cities will increase. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 101 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 102 103 SECTION 6 SOCIAL MUNICIPALISM / SERVICE- ORIENTED MUNICIPALISM AND EXEMPLARY PRACTICES W hile municipal practices in Türkiye offer a wide range of diversity from social ser­ vices to infrastructure and urban transformation projects, they also aim to improve the quality of citizens’ lives through practices in different cat­ egories. In this section, important practices of municipalities in fields such as the provision of social services, infrastructure development and urban transformation projects will be analyzed. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 104 105 6.1. Social Municipalism Practices Social municipalism refers to the provision of services by municipalities for disadvantaged groups in line with the principles of social jus­ tice and equality. These practices aim to support vulnerable segments of society such as the el­ derly ones, people with disabilities, low-income families and children. Social Assistance and Support Services Municipalities carry out social assistance pro­ grams to meet basic needs such as food, cloth­ ing, education and health assistance for families in need. Services for Disabled and Elderly People In order for disabled citizens and the elderly people to live an active life in society, accessibil­ ity projects, home care services and social activ­ ities are being organized. Social Municipalism Practices Exemplary Practices Social Policy Practices of Municipalities Infrastructure and Urban Transformation Infrastructure and urban transformation pro­ jects are activities aimed at improving the phys­ ical structures of cities and increasing their liv­ ability. These projects are carried out with an understanding of sustainable urban planning and environmentally sensitive infrastructure de­ velopment. Transportation and Infrastructure Investments Modern transportation networks, water and waste management systems, development of green spaces and recreational areas are among the factors that directly affect the livability of cit­ ies. Urban Transformation Projects Retrofit of risky buildings and construction of earthquake-resistant residences constitute the basis of urban transformation projects. These projects both improve the aesthetic appearance of cities and ensure that citizens live in a safe en­ vironment. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 106 107 6.2. Social Policy Practices of Municipalities Municipalities try to increase the social welfare of the society and improve their access to social services through social policy practices. In this respect, projects are developed in a wide range of fields from education to health, from women and youth services to cultural activities. Education and Student Support Projects Municipalities provide educational aids and scholarship programs for students, as well as support the educa­ tion of young people by opening education centers. Health Services Health screenings, mobile health servic­ es and health trainings are among the services provided by municipal­ ities in order to protect the health of citizens. Municipalism practices in Türkiye aim to respond to different needs of the society in a wide range of fields, from social municipalism to service munici­ palism. These efforts of municipalities improve the physical and social structure of cities, enhance the quality of citizens’ lives and promote social welfare. 6.2.1. Exemplary Practices Bursa Metropolitan Municipality To improve urban transportation, Bursa Met­ ropolitan Municipality makes significant invest­ ments in transportation infrastructure such as the expansion of metro and tram lines, modern bus stops and smart intersection systems. These investments ease the flow of traffic and make the daily lives of citizens easier. “Transpor­ tation and Infrastructure Investments” New Courthouse, Intersection with Bridge, Bursa Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 108 109 Konya Metropolitan Municipality Konya Metropolitan Municipality offers educa­ tional support projects for young people and students. These projects include scholarship programs, educational aids and social activities for students. The municipality aims to support students at all levels of education. Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality conducts various health projects such as mobile health screening services to make it easier for citizens to access health services and health education seminars. These services are especially impor­ tant for citizens living in rural areas. These and similar practices show that munici­ palities have taken important steps to improve the life quality of citizens in areas such as social services, infrastructure and urban transforma­ “Education Support Projects” “Health Services” tion projects. These practices are of great im­ portance in terms of increasing social welfare and making cities more livable. In conclusion, municipal practices in Tür­ kiye aim to respond to the needs of citi­ zens, from social municipalism to service municipalism, from urban transforma­ tion projects to infrastructure works. The projects carried out by municipalities were examined in a wide spectrum, rang­ ing from social support programs for disadvantaged groups of society to the improvement of the physical infrastruc­ ture of cities. These practices show that the municipalities attach importance not only to physical infrastructure projects but also to the principle of social justice and equality. Projects such as social services, education and health support, urban transformation and trans­ portation infrastructure demonstrate that local governments have adopted a comprehensive ap­ proach. The practices implemented by municipalities are aimed at important objectives such as increasing social welfare, improving the livability of cities and encouraging citizens’ participation in social and cultural life. Şivlilik Gifts on Students' Report Card Day, Konya Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality Medical Center, Sakarya Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 110 111 It is expected in the future that municipalities will continue to invest more in social and infrastruc­ ture projects and integrate more technological innovations. In this way, the capacity of munici­ palities to improve the quality of services provid­ ed to citizens and contribute to the sustainable development of cities will be further strength­ ened. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 113 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 114 115 SECTION 7 EXPECTATIONS OF CITIZENS FROM MUNICIPALITIES T he main purpose of municipalities is to provide services that meet the needs and expectations of citizens. Therefore, it is vital for local governments to understand what citizens expect from municipalities, to assess how these expectations are met, and to find ways to improve service quality. In this section, ex­ pectations of citizens from local governments will be analyzed in the light of public opinion survey and poll results, and the level of fulfillment of expectations and ways of improvement will be discussed. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 116 117 7.1. Public Opinion Surveys and Polls Results of public opinion surveys and polls are critical for municipalities to understand citizens’ expectations, satisfaction levels and their opin­ ions regarding services. These surveys enable municipalities to hear the voice of citizens while they shape their policies and services, so that more effective and citizen-oriented decisions can be made. Public opinion surveys and polls provide valuable data on how municipalities can improve their services. Public opinion surveys and polls are important tools to understand what citizens expect from municipalities. This surveys typically cover top­ ics such as; Infrastructure and transportation services Cultural and artistic events Access to health and education services. Cleaning and environmental management Social services and social benefits The survey results show that citizens attach the highest importance to infrastructure problems, improvement of urban transportation and envi­ ronmental cleaning. In addition, there is a great demand for social services such as social aids and easy access to education and health services. Determination of Expectations It identifies what kind of services that the citizens expect from the municipalities. This is especially important in terms of planning new projects or improving existing services. Measurement of Satisfaction Levels It measures how the services provided are per­ ceived by citizens and their level of satisfaction. This provides direct feedback on the effective­ ness of services. Identification of Areas of Need It identifies the specific needs and priorities of different segments of society as well as the gen­ eral public. This helps to provide services in a more inclusive and equitable way. Following Trends It monitors changes in citizens’ expectations and preferences. This enables municipalities to adapt to dynamic social trends. 7.2. The Importance of Public Opinion Surveys Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 118 119 7.3. Utilization of Survey Results Improvement of Services The results of surveys show the issues that citi­ zens are dissatisfied with and the problems ex­ perienced in services. This information can be used for direct improvement of services. Policy Development Opinions and expectations of citizens guide the development of municipal policies. It is ensured that the policies better serve the needs of citi­ zens. Determination of Priorities It provides guidance on which areas should be prioritized in order to make the most effective use of resources. Increasing Citizen Participation Surveys increase citizen participation in oper­ ational processes of municipalities and ensure that the voices of various segments of society are heard. Public opinion surveys and poll results are a valuable resource for municipalities and an im­ portant tool for meeting citizens’ expectations, improving service quality and strengthening lo­ cal democracy. Thanks to these tools, munic­ ipalities can provide services that are more re­ sponsive to the needs and priorities of society and increase citizen satisfaction. 7.4. Levels of Expectation Satisfaction The level of fulfillment of citizens’ expectations by municipalities is an important indicator of service quality, accessibility and citizen satis­ faction.These levels are used to assess how suc­ cessful municipalities are in delivering services and how responsive they are to the needs of citi­ zens. Factors affecting the level of satisfaction of expectations include municipal resources, man­ agement skills, the effectiveness of policies and programs, and the reasonableness of citizens’ expectations. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 120 Evaluation of the Level of Satisfaction of Expectations High Satisfaction These are the situa­ tions where citizens’ expectations are large­ ly met, and they are satisfied with the ser­ vices provided. This shows that municipali­ ties are correctly iden­ tifying the needs of citizens and providing effective solutions. Moderate Satisfaction These are the situa­ tions where expecta­ tions are partially met, but there is still room for improvement. This shows that munici­ palities are successful in some services but need to improvement in other areas. Low Satisfaction These are the situ­ ations in which citi­ zens’ expectations are mostly not met and they are generally dis­ satisfied with the ser­ vices. This situation shows that services need to be improved and more respon­ sive approaches to the needs of citizens should be developed. Factors Affecting the Satisfaction Level of Expectations Lack of Resources The limited financial, human and technological resources of municipalities may negatively affect service provision and therefore the level of satis­ faction of expectations. Management and Planning Effective management and good planning are critical for providing services in line with citizens’ expectations. Failures in management can make it difficult to meet expectations. Expectation Levels of Citizens The level of reasonableness of citizens’ expec­ tations also affects satisfaction. Excessively ele­ vated or unrealistic expectations can reduce the level of fulfillment. Communication and Participation The effectiveness of citizens’ participation in the processes of municipal service delivery and communication with municipalities enables ex­ pectations to be accurately understood and met. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 121 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 122 123 7.5. Ways for Improvement Some of the improvement ways that municipali­ ties should focus on in order to better meet citi­ zens’ expectations are as follows: 7.5.1. Participatory Municipality Practices It would be useful to develop mechanisms to en­ sure the active participation of citizens in deci­ sion-making processes. Expanding Participatory Municipalism Practices Digital Participation Platforms It is important to establish systems that will ena­ ble citizens to participate in municipal decisions through online platforms. For example, organiz­ ing online surveys and forums and seeking citi­ zens’ opinions on important projects and deci­ sions will reinforce participatory democracy. Neighborhood and City Councils It is important to engage citizens more directly in local government processes through bodies such as neighborhood and city councils.It would be useful to directly listen to the demands and suggestions of citizens by holding regular meet­ ings in these councils. Technology and Innovation Improving service quality in service delivery through the effective use of technology and inno­ vation will strengthen the relationship between the municipality and citizens. 7.5.2. Effective Use of Technology and Innovation Smart City Applications Using smart city technologies in areas such as traffic management, waste management and energy saving is important. Energy saving with smart lighting systems or providing transporta­ tion services to citizens through mobile applica­ tions are among the example applications. E-Services Transfer of municipal services to the electron­ ic environment accelerates the services pro­ vided. Developing the necessary infrastructure for citizens to make transactions such as pa­ perwork, payments and appointments online is important. 7.5.3. Sustainable Development Oriented Pro­ jects Environmentally Friendly Transportation Solutions The development and promotion of environmen­ tally friendly transportation alternatives such as bicycle paths, pedestrian paths and public transportation are among the services of munic­ ipalities. Increasing Green Spaces Increasing the number of green areas and parks in the city, improving existing green areas and making it easier for citizens to benefit from these areas are important. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 124 125 7.5.4. Strengthening Transparency and Accountability Open Data Applications Municipal activities also re­ quire sharing detailed infor­ mation about budget utiliza­ tion and projects with citizens. It is important to provide easy access to this information on municipal websites and other digital platforms. Feedback Mechanisms Effective mechanisms have been established for citi­ zens to provide feedback to municipalities. Exam­ ples of such mechanisms include complaint and suggestion boxes, online feedback forms and cus­ tomer service hotlines. These improvement meth­ ods will help to better un­ derstand and meet citizens’ expectations, improve the quality of municipal ser­ vices, and contribute to making cities more livable. Steps to be taken by mu­ nicipalities in this direction will increase citizen satis­ faction, while at the same time enabling cities to de­ velop in a sustainable and inclusive manner. In conclusion, municipalities provide ser­ vices that directly affect the quality of citizens’ lives. Therefore, it is of great importance for municipalities to under­ stand citizens’ expectations and develop services in line with these expectations. Public opinion surveys and polls show that citizens expect more services from municipalities in areas such as infra­ structure, transportation, environmental management, social services and cultur­ al activities. A detailed examination of improvement ways shows that municipalities can take concrete steps to increase citizen satisfaction and im­ prove service quality. Expanding participatory municipal practices, effective use of technology and innovation, implementing sustainable devel­ opment projects, and increasing transparency and accountability are critical for municipalities to better respond to the expectations of citizens. Maintaining service delivery and policy devel­ opment processes with a citizen-oriented per­ spective will contribute to the sustainable and inclusive development of cities and increase so­ cial welfare. The steps to be taken by municipal­ ities in this direction will play an important role in meeting the expectations of citizens and will contribute to the strengthening of local democ­ racy. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 127 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 128 129 SECTION 8 MUNICIPALITES WITH THE CENTURY OF TÜRKİYE VISION T he vision of the “Century of Türkiye” an­ nounced by our President Recep Tayyip Er­ dogan symbolizes the effort to overcome the challenges faced by the country and to set great goals for the future starting from 2023, the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye. This vision targets Türkiye’s develop­ ment in a wide range of fields, from economic growth to social justice and equality, from ed­ ucation to healthcare, from technological pro­ gress to environmental sustainability. Municipal­ ities are considered as one of the cornerstones of this broad vision and undertake important roles in this new era. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 130 131 The vision of “Century of Türkiye” includes key objectives such as shaping the future of munici­ palities, making cities more livable and sustain­ able, using technology and innovation effectively in the delivery of local services, and improving the life quality of citizens. In this section, the re­ flections of the vision of the “Century of Türkiye” on municipalities, the role that municipalities will play in realizing this vision, and the importance of technology and innovation in this process will be examined in detail. Here, the core principles of the vision of the “Century of Türkiye” and how municipalities are positioned within this vision are presented. In this context, future projections of municipalities, strategies for the use of tech­ nology and innovation, and the implications and opportunities of this new era for Türkiye will be discussed. Turkish Republic President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdogan, AK Party “Century of Turkey” Presentation Meeting, Ankara 2022 8.1. Reflection of the “Century of Türkiye” Vision on Municipalities The “Century of Türkiye” vision positions munic­ ipalities as the locomotives of national develop­ ment and raises expectations from these author­ ities to a new level. The reflection of this vision on municipalities can be summarized as increas­ ing the global competitiveness of cities, adopting sustainable development principles and improv­ ing the quality of citizens’ lives. 8.1.1. Global Competitiveness Global competitiveness is a concept that is be­ coming increasingly important for municipalities. In this context, making cities more competitive in the international arena requires various stra­ tegic approaches and innovative projects. Glob­ al competitiveness includes not only economic growth, but also sustainable development, high quality of life and environmental durability. Economic Development Municipalities aim to create investment attrac­ tive environments to accelerate the economic development of cities. This is possible through the development of high-tech industries and innovative start-up ecosystems, supporting re­ search and development R&D activities. More­ over, municipalities can implement policies such as tax incentives, investment-friendly regula­ tions and international collaborations to attract foreign investors. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 132 133 Sustainable Projects Global competitiveness is not just related to economy, but also to environmental sustainabili­ ty. Municipalities aim to reduce the environmen­ tal footprint of cities and promote green devel­ opment by encouraging environmentally friendly initiatives such as green energy projects, zero waste practices and sustainable transportation solutions. Such projects increase the compet­ itiveness of cities at the international level and create more livable and healthy urban areas. Quality of Life and Social Development The global competitiveness of cities also de­ pends on the quality of life of their citizens. Mu­ nicipalities aim to improve social welfare by in­ creasing the accessibility to education and health services, investing in cultural and artistic activi­ ties and expanding social services. This makes cities attractive not only from an economic point of view, but also socially and culturally. Technology and Innovation Municipalities strengthen the technological infra­ structure of cities through smart city technolo­ gies, digital transformation projects and innova­ tive service models. These approaches improve service delivery, make city management more efficient and make citizens’ daily lives easier. In addition, high-tech industries and R&D activ­ ities contribute significantly to the economic de­ velopment and international competitiveness of cities. Global competitiveness requires a multidimen­ sional approach by municipalities. Economic de­ velopment, environmental sustainability, social development and technological advancement must be addressed together to increase the competitiveness of cities at the international level. This requires municipalities to develop stra­ tegic visions that will carry their cities to the future and to aim to create internationally compet­ itive, innovative and livable cit­ ies. 8.1.2. Sustainable Development  Sustainable development in the context of the “Century of Türkiye” vision aims to advance environ­ mental protection and social de­ velopment in a balanced manner alongside the economic growth. Municipalities, in line with this vision, develop and implement various strategies to achieve sustainable development goals. In this section, proactive steps by municipalities in focal areas such as energy efficiency, waste management, water conserva­ tion and green space protection are discussed. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 134 135 Energy Efficiency Municipalities bring energy efficiency to the fore­ front through steps such as increasing energy effi­ ciency in buildings, using less energy-consuming technologies such as LED bulbs in public light­ ing, and investing in renewable energy sources. Waste Management Waste management strategies are based on promoting recycling, composting organic waste and safe disposal of hazardous waste. Munici­ palities aim to reduce the amount of waste and make waste management processes more envi­ ronmentally friendly by developing zero waste policies. Mobile Waste Collection Center, Çorum Water Saving Water conservation measures are essential for the protection and efficient use of water resourc­ es. Municipalities promote the adoption of wa­ ter-saving agricultural techniques such as drip irrigation, organize campaigns to encourage sav­ ings in household and industrial water use and improves infrastructure to reduce water losses and leakages. Protection of Green Areas Protecting and increasing green spaces supports the livability and environmental sustainability of cities. Municipalities develop projects to protect and expand parks, gardens and natural ar­ eas. They also work to increase the amount of green space in cities through innovative solu­ tions such as urban green corri­ dors and rooftop gardens. These efforts aim to advance economic growth in balance with environmental protection and social development as key components of the vision of the “Century of Türkiye”. Sustaina­ ble development-oriented pro­ jects reflect the commitment of municipalities to leave healthy, livable and resilient cities for fu­ ture generations. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 136 137 This approach plays a crit­ ical role in achieving sus­ tainability goals at local and national level. 8.1.3. Improving the Life Quality of Citizens Improving the life quality of citizens is one of the main tasks of municipalities and this task re­ quires a comprehensive approach. Municipalities aim to improve the life quality of citizens through various services that directly affect their daily lives. This process covers a wide range of areas, from infrastructure and transportation services to education and health services, and support for cultural and social activities. Public’s Garden, Bayrampaşa / İstanbul Improvement of Infrastructure and Transportation Servicesi Infrastructure Sound and reliable infrastructure forms the ba­ sis of life quality. Municipalities carry out works to improve basic infrastructure services, such as the improvement of clean water and sewerage systems, street lighting and maintenance of pub­ lic spaces. Transportation Effective transportation systems are critical for citizens to reach their workplaces, attend social events, and overall urban mobility. Municipali­ ties develop projects to improve public transport services, increase pedestrian and bicycle routes and optimize traffic flow. Tram Line, Kocaeli Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 138 139 Facilitating Access to Education and Health Services Education Providing high quality educational services con­ tributes to the personal and professional devel­ opment of all segments of society. Municipalities can offer education programs for a wide range of groups, from pre-school to adult education, and improve the quality of education facilities. Health Easy access to basic health services is vital for life quality. Municipalities work to increase the number and accessibility of health centers, organize public health campaigns and improve emergency health services. Barrier-Free Living Center, Kastamonu Supporting Cultural and Social Activities Cultural Activities Culture and arts nourish the soul of society and contribute greatly to the life quality of citizens. Municipalities can enrich the cultural life of the city by supporting cultural activities such as mu­ seums, theaters, concerts, and festivals. Social Activities To strengthen the social structure of society and encourage citizens to interact with each other, municipalities can create spaces for social activ­ ities such as sports facilities, parks, recreation areas and community centers. Improvements to be realized by municipalities in these areas directly affect the life quality of citi­ zens and contribute to the creation of a happier, healthier and more social society. This process requires an inclusive and citizen-oriented ap­ proach so that municipalities can provide ser­ vices in line with the needs and expectations of society. If There is Woman, There is Life Exhibition, Esenler / İstanbul Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 140 141 8.2. The Role of Technology and Innovation in Local Governments In the context of the “Century of Türkiye” vision, the role of technology and innovation in munic­ ipalities has a central importance in achieving Türkiye’s development goals. This vision urges municipalities to use technology and innovation in a strategic way to increase the social, econom­ ic, and environmental sustainability of cities. This approach allows municipalities to improve service delivery, improve citizens’ life quality and strengthen their international competitiveness. 8.2.1. Smart City Applications Municipalities implement smart city technolo­ gies to make citizens’ daily lives easier and in­ crease the efficiency of city services. These prac­ tices range in a wide range of areas, from traffic management to waste management, from ener­ gy savings to public safety. Smart city applica­ tions make city management more dynamic and interactive through real-time data analysis and the use of IoT (Internet of Things) devices. 8.2.2. The Digital Transformation “Century of Türkiye” vision aims to accelerate the digital transformation processes of munici­ palities. This means extending municipal servic­ es to online platforms, developing e-municipality applications and facilitating citizens’ interactions with the municipality in digital environments. Digital transformation expands the access to services, increases transparency and improves citizen satisfaction. 8.2.3. Innovative Projects By using technology and innovation, municipal­ ities can develop innovative service models in areas such as health, education, transportation, and social services. These models can better re­ spond to citizens’ needs by making service deliv­ ery more flexible, accessible and effective. e-komobil.com / Website Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 142 143 8.3. Future Projection and Strategies The “Century of Türkiye” vision envisages that municipalities will play an important role in achieving Türkiye’s national and international goals of sustainable development, competitive­ ness, and social welfare through the strategic use of technology and innovation. This process requires increasing the capacity of municipalities for continuous learning, adaptation, and innova­ tion. The adoption of technology and innovation by municipalities in the context of the “Century of Türkiye” vision brings a number of expected fu­ ture projections with it. Inclusive Development It is the development of inclusive and equitable development strategies that aim to improve the life quality of all citizens. Municipalities aim to reduce environmental impact in areas such as green energy production, water management and waste management by using technology in environmental sustainability projects. Solar Power Plant Project, Sakarya Environmental Sustainability It includes prioritizing environmental sustaina­ bility projects such as green energy, zero waste and water management. Global Competitiveness Technology and innovation play a critical role in improving the competitiveness of local econo­ mies in the global market. By creating innovative ecosystems, municipalities support high-tech in­ dustries and start-ups. Recycle Collection Vehicle, Kocasinan / Kayseri Bilim Üsküdar, National Technologies in the Sky and Beyond Exhibition, Üsküdar / İstanbul Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 144 145 Social Welfare It involves the development of social services in areas such as education, health, culture and sports, and ensuring social welfare and equality. Social Participation and Transparency Technology makes it easier for citizens to par­ ticipate in municipal processes and increases transparency in governance. Municipalities are developing online platforms and applications to receive citizen feedback and engage them in pol­ icy-making processes. The vision of the “Century of Türkiye” presents both an opportunity and a challenge for local governments. In line with this vision, the fact that the municipalities moving towards sustainable and inclusive development by embracing tech­ nology and innovation are important steps that will shape Türkiye’s next century. Barrier-Free Living Center, Üsküdar / İstanbul El Battani Space Center Project, Kağıthane / İstanbul In conclusion, municipalities are vital ac­ tors in realizing the vision of the “Century of Türkiye”. In line with this vision, important steps are expected to be taken in various areas such as improving infrastructure and transportation systems, facilitating access to education and health services, and supporting cultural and social activ­ ities. These efforts will contribute to build more livable, just and sustainable cities, by directly affecting the life quality of cit­ izens. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 146 147 Technology and innovation play a key role in helping municipalities to achieve these goals. Smart city applications, digital transformation projects and innovative service models offer tools that will make service delivery more effec­ tive, efficient and citizen-oriented. In addition, global competitiveness and environmental sus­ tainability are cornerstones of the “Century of Türkiye” vision and are of strategic importance to enhance the competitiveness of municipalities at national and international level and to achieve sustainable development goals. The roles that municipalities undertake within the framework of the “Century of Türkiye” vision will directly affect Türkiye’s capacity to over­ come national and international challenges and achieve major goals in the next century. There­ fore, it is critical for municipalities to adopt an innovative, inclusive, and sustainable approach in order to successfully realize the vision. Space and Technology Center, Çekmekoy / İstanbul Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 149 Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 150 151 CONCLUSION M unicipalities have an important role in re­ sponding to the challenges that Türkiye faces in the 21st century and in achieving na­ tional development goals. In this study prepared within this framework, the “Century of Türkiye” vision and the role of municipalities and the im­ pact of this vision on the life quality of citizens, global competitiveness of cities, environmental sustainability and the importance of technology and innovation in municipal services are analyz­ ed through exemplary practices. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 152 153 The main themes of the study, which was cov­ ered in a wide range from social municipalism to smart municipalism, are as follows: The contribution of municipalities to the democ­ ratization process was emphasized in terms of greater citizen involvement in decision-making and strengthening local democracy. The evolu­ tion of municipalism and the democratization process in Türkiye were examined in a historical perspective from the Ottoman period to the es­ tablishment of the Republic and up to the pres­ ent day. The issues of managing municipal services more effectively and increasing the participation of citizens in the management processes were em­ phasized. The impact of municipalities on the development process, the role of regional devel­ opment agencies and how local economies can be strengthened by supporting local projects were discussed. Municipality models in Türkiye and successful practices of these models were detailed with examples. The use of technology and innovation in municipal services, the ef­ fects of smart city projects and digital transformation on the life quality of citizens were examined. The contributions of munic­ ipalities to the democratiza­ tion process, their efforts to improve the life quality of cit­ izens, and suggestions for ad­ dressing the challenges faced were highlighted in the study. Furthermore, it was empha­ sized that the roles undertak­ en by municipalities in line with the vision of the “Century of Türkiye” are of critical impor­ tance in achieving Türkiye’s development goals. Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision Municipal Governance under the Century of Türkiye Vision 154 155 Competitiveness in the international arena, sus­ tainable development and improving the life qu­ ality of citizens are gaining importance for mu­ nicipalities, and this situation requires various strategic approaches and innovative projects. The reflection of the “Century of Türkiye” vision on municipalities is summarized as economic, sustainable projects, life quality and social de­ velopment, technology, and innovation in terms of global competitiveness; as energy efficiency, waste management, water saving, protection of green areas in terms of sustainable development; and as infrastructure, transportation, education, health, cultural and social activities in terms of improving the life quality of citizens. When we consider the reflection of technology and innovation in municipalities, it is emphasi­ zed that it has a central importance in achieving Türkiye’s development goals. These can be seen in smart city applications, in digital transforma­ tions such as the migration of municipal services to online platforms, and in innovative projects that are more flexible, accessible and effective. Moreover, within the scope of the “Century of Türkiye” vision, municipalities are expected to embrace technology and innovation, which brin­ gs with it a series of future projections that inclu­ de inclusive development, environmental susta­ inability, global competitiveness, social welfare, participation, and transparency.