This article was originally published by Rotterdam Partners. 

The Resilient Cities Network opens its European office in Rotterdam today, making the 2021 move from London to the Netherlands official. The Resilient Cities Network chose for Rotterdam because of the city’s reputation for being a global pioneer of resilience, providing inspiration and support to cities across the globe. This sentiment is echoed by other organizations in the city, such as the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), which settled in its floating office in 2021.

The world's leading network for resilient cities

Rotterdam was among the first members to join the Resilient Cities Network in 2014. The world’s leading network for resilient cities brings together global knowledge, practical experience, partnerships and funding to enable members to build safe and equitable cities for all. The Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb is a member of the global Board of Directors of R-Cities.

Dealing with the challenges of the 21st century

Its location in the delta of the Meuse River has enabled Rotterdam to be the world’s largest port for decades, and it remains the maritime capital of Europe. The proximity of water also poses a threat. The flood disaster of 1953, for example, prompted the construction of the Delta Works - hailed as one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

Rotterdam became one of the first cities in the world with a climate adaptive approach, which later evolved into a resilience strategy. This strategy outlines how the city arms itself against the challenges of the 21st century, addressing issues such as climate change, energy transition and digital infrastructure.

More information

For more information on Rotterdam, contact Boudewijn Pothoven, 0031-68291 3505, press officer Rotterdam Partners.

For more information on the Resilient Cities Network, contact Lina Liakou, Regional director for Europe and the Middle East, or check www.resilientcitiesnetwork.org.

Source: Rotterdam Partners