Solutions Labs
The Solutions Lab model is Metropolis’ approach to policy exchange—bringing cities together around a common metropolitan challenge.
The Solutions Lab: Developing Care Systems for Equitable & Prosperous Cities convenes political leaders and directors from 5-6 cities committed to integrating care services and infrastructure and addressing the gendered distribution of care work.
Through online exchanges and a two-day in person workshop, cities explore good practices and effective policy approaches to create more equitable urban environments.
Istanbul, June 2024, with participating cities: Baghdad, Istanbul, Belo Horizonte, Buenos Aires, Amman and Ramallah. Online participants: Bogotá and Mexico City.
Dakar, October 2024, with participating cities: Bamako, Douala, Dakar, Johannesburg, eThekwini (Durban) and Freetown.
2025: The next Solutions Lab will bring together members from Asian cities. Contact us if your city is interested in participating.
What did we learn through our Solutions Labs on local care policies?
See the highlights from our Solutions Lab in Istanbul
Our exchanges with city leaders showed:
Cities should start by mapping existing local care services, infrastructure and stakeholders and make the most of these existing resources.
A strong narrative is needed to build political will and interdepartmental collaboration.
Understanding of the data available is key to addressing local needs.
Local governments should couple services for caregivers and care-receivers, prioritizing simultaneity, proximity and flexibility.
Harmful social norms can be shifted through education and campaigns involving men and women.
Highlights from our Care Solutions Labs
