Mobility was at the centre of discussions at UN Day Dresden 2026, which was held under the theme “Rethinking Mobility”. The event brought together experts from academia, public administration, industry and members of the public in Dresden to explore the future of sustainable transport and urban mobility.
Held in the context of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035), the event aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and examined how mobility can better serve people's needs while supporting environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
The event highlighted the urgent need to transform transport systems in response to growing congestion, rising greenhouse gas emissions, resource constraints and the impacts of climate change.
New approaches to mobility are creating opportunities for cities and communities worldwide. From the use of digital data and agile planning methods to participatory decision-making processes, innovative tools are enabling a more accurate understanding of mobility needs. At the same time, developments in public transport, cycling and walking infrastructure, shared mobility services and climate-friendly logistics are demonstrating practical pathways towards more sustainable transport systems.
The event opened with remarks from Stephan Kühn, Deputy Mayor for Urban Development, Construction, Transportation, and Real Estate, followed by a welcome address from Prof. Daniel Karthe, Director of UNU Resource Nexus.
A high-level panel discussion brought together leading voices from academia, public administration, industry and civil society to examine current mobility challenges and emerging solutions. Panellists included Prof. Regina Gerike, Dean of the Friedrich List Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences at Dresden University of Technology and spokesperson for the AgiMo Collaborative Research Centre; Stephan Kühn, Deputy Mayor for Urban Development, Construction, Transportation, and Real Estate; Burkhard Ehlen, Managing Director of ZVVO and VVO GmbH; and Tobias Spens, Fuß- & Radentscheid, Bündnis Mobilität Für Alle. The discussion was moderated by Prof. Ostap Okhrin, Vice-Dean of the Friedrich List Faculty of Transport Sciences at Dresden University of Technology and a sub-project leader within the AgiMo collaborative research initiative.
Held annually, UN Day Dresden is an important platform for bringing together stakeholders and members of the public to discuss issues of both local and global significance. This year's event was particularly significant for UNU Resource Nexus, marking the institute's first major public outreach event in Dresden under its new short form and under the leadership of its new Director, Prof. Daniel Karthe.
Following the panel discussion, participants attended the presentation of the 27th Local Agenda Awards, which recognised local initiatives contributing to sustainable urban development in Dresden. The awards showcased practical examples of community-led action and innovation, underscoring the important role of local actors in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
