The Politicians’ Reflections: Courage, Vision and Collaboration in Urban Development!

The panel consisted of Ulf Erik Bakke (Arbeiderpartiet, Lillestrøm), Elsa Berg (Tjóðveldi, Tórshavn), John Nyborg (Socialdemokratiet, Fredericia) and Stefan Erikson (Moderaterna, Linköping). The discussion was moderated by Marcus Horning, Chair of Nordic City Network.

A central question in the conversation was how to find the so-called “golden zone” – the balance between different stakeholders’ interests – and how to build political consensus around key societal goals. The politicians shared concrete examples from their municipalities and offered recommendations for Linköping’s continued work.

 

Ulf Erik Bakke spoke about the importance of continuity in politics and emphasized that it is crucial to work as one administration (politicians and civil servants together), where consensus on major issues must extend beyond election cycles. John Nyborg highlighted the importance of “having courage.” Despite heated debate, politics and administration in Fredericia decided to make public transport free, resulting in many more people from the suburbs traveling into the city.

The panel also shared experiences on how collaboration between municipalities, businesses, and civil society can be strengthened to create more cohesive cities.

 

“The participation and reflections of politicians are invaluable – their presence and engagement at the conference are essential.”
– From the evaluation of the lab.