Expert: Public participation in decision-making essential for  sustainable urban development 

ArmInfo. To achieve sustainable urban development, it is necessary to expand mechanisms for resident participation in decision-making and to foster a culture of healthy, constructive dialogue, as stated by Alen Amirkhanian,  Director of the Acopian Center for the Environment, during a panel  discussion  "Nordic Solutions for Smart Cities Ahead of COP17" held  as part of the Nordic Days festival.

Amirkhanian noted that citizens require clean air, reduced noise  pollution, less artificial light at night, fewer traffic jams, more  efficient urban mobility, and alternative transportation options. At  the same time, he addressed the themes of education and innovation,  highlighting the state's role in creating an enabling environment for  young people capable of proposing innovative solutions for urban  transformation.

"The public sector is highly restrictive due to its hierarchy,  leaving little room for innovation within the system of governance.  This stands as one of the most significant challenges," he stated.

Note that the Nordic Days 2026 festival officially launched in  Yerevan today, with a press conference attended by representatives  from the embassies of Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The  festival program is dedicated to Scandinavian approaches to  sustainable development, innovation, culture, literature, security,  equality, and community engagement. The goal of the Nordic Days  festival is to introduce the Armenian audience to Scandinavian  experience and practical solutions through discussions, exhibitions,  film screenings, literary and public events.

The festival brings together public figures, experts, writers,  representatives of science and culture, youth, and the general  public, creating a platform for dialogue and exchange of experiences.  Over the course of two days (June 12-13), Yerevan will host expert  discussions, book presentations, film screenings, presentations of  public initiatives, and more. A more detailed program of the event  can be found at the link:   https://www.facebook.com/events/961795590102582/active_tab=discussion  Admission to all events is free.