The Capitoline Council has officially approved Roma Capitale’s membership in the Italian Healthy Cities Network – WHO, a strategic network that places the health of citizens at the center of administrative policies, following the guidelines of the World Health Organization.
Joining the Network is not just a formal act, but represents a commitment to transform city governance. The goal is to make health a pivotal principle in every sphere of public life, integrating mental and physical well-being with territorial development. The pillars of this vision include:
- sustainable mobility: enhancement of bicycle and pedestrian routes to reduce pollution and encourage physical activity;
- prevention and wellness: development of initiatives aimed at healthy lifestyles and the protection of the most vulnerable;
- The exchange of best practices: active cooperation with other municipalities in the network to implement successfully tested urban solutions.
“With this membership,” says Councillor for Social Policies and Health Barbara Funari, “Rome strengthens its commitment to a city model that puts people’s health at the center. The goal is to build increasingly integrated policies capable of reducing inequalities, improving quality of life and promoting well-being in neighborhoods, also working in a network with other Italian and European realities. In fact, participation in the Network will make it possible to develop shared planning, access opportunities for cooperation and give greater visibility to the policies already launched as part of the city’s Social Plan. Roma Capitale thus confirms its commitment to a healthier, sustainable and inclusive city.”
In Rome on May 5 and 6, appointment at the Capitol
The choice of Rome as the network’s new hub coincides with a significant milestone: the association’s 25 years of activity. To celebrate the anniversary, the Sala della Protomoteca in the Capitol will host the national meeting “Cities That Care – 25 Years of Commitment to Urban Health” on Tuesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 6.
The event will provide an opportunity for experts, administrators and WHO representatives to discuss the future challenges of modern metropolises, from climate resilience to health equity.
Founded in 2001, the Italian Healthy Cities Network is now a consolidated reality that coordinates numerous municipalities throughout the country. With Rome’s membership, the network comes to represent more than 13 million citizens, confirming it as the main Italian interlocutor for the promotion of more livable, inclusive and quality-of-life-conscious cities.
