Global urbanization is moving at a faster pace than ever before and it is showing a fundamental shift in its structure and organization. The increase in privatization has led to an increased dynamic between client, investor, developer, designer, builder and end-user. The organizational models shift with each new urban development as alliances, politics and financial interests change. Organizations are forced to re-define their role, goal and added value and find new methods, approaches and coalitions in a constantly shifting territory where interests are often conflicting while organizations involved are interdependent.
The title of the conference, ‘New Towns | New Territories’ refers to both new cities in a very literal way, as well as to innovative models of urban development practice. The title therefore implies our fascination with both the physical and organizational shifts taking place.