DILG-VI urges LGUs, NGAs, NGOs to join Habitat JAM
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI, in cooperation with the Regional Local Governance Resource Center (RLGRC) and the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), is encouraging Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and other interested groups and individuals to participate in a global Internet-based forum on urban issues dubbed as Habitat JAM on December 1 to 3, 2005.
'The Habitat JAM is a three-day Internet event that will bring tens of thousands of people around the world together to discuss and debate some of the most urgent and controversial issues that face our rapidly urbanizing planet, says DILG-6 Regional Director Evelyn A. Trompeta. 'Habitat JAM is being held as part of the preparations for the third session of the World Urban Forum.
Trompeta is urging the aforementioned sectors to participate in Habitat JAM as this is their chance to add their own inputs on key issues of urban sustainability. 'You can help create actionable ideas and influence the content for the World Urban Forum, which is being held in Vancouver, Canada in June 2006. It will give you the opportunity to be involved in a global dialogue about urban issues that are important to you. It will enable you to form connections with legislators and parliamentarians who share your interests in urban issues, connect with local government leaders around the world, explore new business opportunities, expand your network and explore urban issues with experts.'
There are six main topics of discussion in Habitat JAM: 1) Improving the Lives of Slum Dwellers, 2) Sustainable Access to Water, 3) Environmental Sustainability, 4) Safety and Security, 5) Finance and Governance, and 6) Humanity:The Future of Our Cities.
'To participate, all you need is your ideas and an Internet connection,' Trompeta concludes.
To become part of the JAM, register on the website http://www.habitatjam.com. For more information on this World Wide Web event, interested parties may contact Evelyn Vista of the DILG-RLGRC (e-mail address: mail@dilg6.org) or Alison Ritchie of the Canadian Urban Institute (landline 336-7872).