New Publications 2006 Human Security in Urban Spaces Conference Report This report outlines key points for consideration and summarizes the presentations of each panel presenter from the 8-9 June 2006 Human Security in Urban Spaces Conference, held in Vancouver, Canada Freedom From Fear in Urban Spaces In what some are calling the ‘urban century’, this discussion paper examines the development of both ‘fearscapes’ and conflict-resilient cities, and explores both the challenges and opportunities that cities present for human security. Fast Talk Report: New Release Thought provoking insights and ideas from a panel of experts convened by DFAIT to explore new possibilites for the study of urban human security. 8-9 June 2006 Human Security in Urban Spaces Conference The Department of International Affairs (DFAIT) and the Canadian Consortium on Human Security are proud to announce the success of the conference entitled Human Security in Urban Spaces, held 8-9 June 2006 at the Liu Institute for Global Issues in Vancouver, Canada. Graduate Research Award Winners Announced! The 2006 Human Security and Cities Graduate Research Winners have been selected. Click here to learn more. Be sure to check this website in the future for more research funding opportunities. Want to learn more? Have an idea? Write us at info@humansecurity- cities.org Freedom from fear: Canada’s human security paradigm World Urban Forum 3

Conflict Resilient Cities Certain unique aspects of cities can enable opportunities and mitigate challenges for human security. Conflict resilience can flourish as population density and social capital potential can provide valuable conflict prevention opportunities. This resilience can help buffer a city from external conflict, or help prevent the escalation of violence beyond urban boundaries. Cities can attempt to oppose violent state policies, as the mayor of Belgrade attempted to do in 1996-1997. In post-conflict contexts, resurgent cities can symbolically or financially support national peace processes, for example, Sarajevo’s swift ethnic reconciliation which contributed to Bosnia’s recovery from civil war. Urban governance is one of the key human security tools that can be used to combat conflict and the failure of public security. Since cities host the level of government that is closest to the people, this suggests that local authorities can be more sensitive to the needs and aptitudes of their constituents, and touch the daily lives of citizens through delivery of services, including those services that may enhance human security. City governments are also key entry points for disseminating the democratic principles of tolerance, equity, participation, and representation – principles that are conducive to conflict resolution. Representative and inclusive local democratic governments can also help combat alienation that can make slum inhabitants the targets of organized crime, and manage the tensions which can spark urban unrest. In post-conflict environments, cities should be focal points for peacebuilding activities. Following violent conflict, cities can fulfill immediate needs of civilians by providing housing, water, and social assistance. Locally-based and participatory peacebuilding projects in cities can help sow the principles of conflict resolution at the local level, building sustainable peace from the ground up. For Download the 2006 DFAIT discussion paper, “Freedom from Fear in Urban Spaces”! Development of this site was funded by the Human Security Program of Foreign Affairs Canada