Finding the Interrelation between Smart City Initiatives and International Development Cooperation: A Critical Analysis of Current Project Processes and Underlying Motivations
This paper aims to explore the interplay between smart city projects and international development cooperation initiatives while identifying potential challenges associated with their ongoing processes. Numerous studies have investigated the potential economic development opportunities through smart city initiatives at the local level. This paper contributes to existing literature by examining the convergence of smart city and international development projects, providing a comprehensive perspective on these projects in terms of governance, motivation, financing, and inclusivity. This research includes a critical assessment of these projects, with the hope that both communities can actively engage in dialogue and cooperation to share their shortcomings and successful experiences, ultimately achieving a ‘smart’ balance in their development landscape.