Author: Negin Amiri

On 24–25 March 2026, the Chair of City and Regional Planning, Department of Spatial Planning at TU Dortmund University, successfully hosted the final conference of the UPRUN project: Urban Planning for Social Resilience in Urban Neighborhoods (UPRUN). The conference brought together researchers from around the world to explore how urban planning can actively strengthen social resilience in neighborhoods and cities. Over two inspiring days, participants exchanged state-of-the-art research, presented innovative approaches, and engaged in thoughtful discussions on current challenges and future pathways for sustainable and inclusive urban development. The dynamic academic dialogue and collaborative atmosphere made this event truly enriching.

A key message clearly emerged from the conference:
Social resilience and civil society engagement are not optional add-ons in urban development — they are essential foundations of meaningful and sustainable urban transformation. Resilient neighborhoods emerge where participation is taken seriously, local knowledge is valued, and planning processes are inclusive.

We sincerely thank all speakers, participants, and contributors — both on-site and online — for their valuable insights and engagement.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the entire UPRUN consortium, whose collaboration, commitment, and shared vision made this event possible.

Photo: Uwe Grützner

If you are curious about the topics and discussions from the conference, you can read the Book of Abstracts at the following link: Book of Abstracts UPRUN Conference 2026 Dortmund

We are excited to share the official programme of the UPRUN Conference 2026,
“Urban Planning for Social Resilience in Urban Neighborhoods: Transformative Change through Civic Engagement”, which features all key details about our upcoming event at TU Dortmund.

The UPRUN team very much looks forward to welcoming all participants to Dortmund.

Location:
Technical University of Dortmund
International Meeting Center (IBZ)
Emil-Figge-Str. 61
44227 Dortmund, Germany

Date: 24-25 March 2026

Download the brochure (PDF) here:

We’re thrilled to announce the UPRUN Conference on Urban Planning for Social Resilience happening on March 24-25, 2026, at TU Dortmund University!Calling all academics, urban planners, policymakers & community leaders! Submit your abstracts by November 30 and be part of transformative discussions around social resilience in urban neighborhoods.

Explore our exciting tracks focused on:
• The Built Environment
• Governance & Community Transformation
• Civic Engagement
• Public-Civic Partnerships
• Digital Technologies & More!

Click the link below for more info about submission guidelines!

Call for Papers: UPRUN Conference on Urban Planning for Social Resilience in Urban Neighborhoods, Dortmund, 24-25 March 2026

After nearly a year of in-depth case study research across various European countries, all UPRUN partners convened for an insightful workshop to discuss their findings on civil society initiatives and their significant contributions to neighborhood social resilience. The findings have been exceptional, showcasing a vast array of cases, strategies, and approaches that provide valuable insights and shed light on innovative strategies that empower communities. You can expect to find detailed outcomes soon in the UPRUN database, which will serve as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and anyone interested in enhancing social cohesion.
In addition to these findings, partners shared their versions of innovative teaching units developed from real practices. These cutting-edge educational units will be tested in laboratory settings at eight university partners, paving the way for enhanced educational approaches in the field or urban planning and urban design. The teaching units and accompanying teaching methods not only aim to improve academic outcomes but also seeks to inspire future generations of students and teachers alike.
We invite you to explore our website for more updates and insights into our research. Discover how UPRUN is making a difference in communities across Europe and be part of this exciting endeavor.