Geneva Global & the Legatum Foundation – Transforming Slums

June 2014. An initiative led by Geneva Global and the Legatum Foundation to explore and expand thinking and perspectives about the phenomenon of slums and urbanization around the world and to propose tangible innovative, game-changing interventions for transformation.

Why Focus on Slums?
There are over one billion people currently living in slums, which is about one-third of the urban population in developing countries. This number will likely double by 2030, making the topic of slum transformation an urgent priority.

In response, the Legatum Foundation, and its philanthropic advisor, Geneva Global, are developing a program to tackle the issue. As a first step, we are working to convene a range of thought leaders to examine the topic from both from a philosophical standpoint (Why do slums exist? Should we be helping?) as well as practical standpoint (What can be done to improve conditions? What’s the best way to address the root causes?).

Held on 25-26 June in Dubai, the intent of the event is to understand the slum sector in greater detail and identify gaps and opportunities.