Join us now in exploring different subthemes and topics that the global cycling community will address between 15 and18 September 2020 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

With this year’s theme “Smart Cycling Inclusion", the conference will lead the way in defining smart and inclusive cycling environments of tomorrow. Following the submission of more than 500 abstracts from 49 different countries, a rich programme of more than 60 sessions has been put in place. Diverse and stimulating sessions will expand on the main themes and explore the meaning of smart cycling inclusion from various angles.  Velo-city 2020 Ljubljana will also try to show how to build inclusive cities, communities and mobility systems and prepare them for the next decade with more cycling development and innovation.

Towards a more inclusive future with better cycling for all

First, let’s delve into the Social Innovation and Technology subtheme, meant to challenge our views on emerging technologies and encourage us to reflect on how they are shaping the future of cycling.

With the fast advancement of technology and disruptive innovations happening in and affecting every aspect of society, it is no coincidence that Velo-city 2020 Ljubljana aims to open the stage for debates on new technological developments within the cycling and mobility sector. Under this subtheme we will take a closer look at the present - and try to envision a future - role of technology and innovation for urban and mobility planning that puts people at its core.

Reflecting on the impact of said innovation on cycling as well as public life in general, we hope to bring together different approaches and discussions on the creation of accessible, safe, clean, shared and functional spaces for all. We also aim to address today's policy and regulatory frameworks and question how effective they are in responding to disruptions caused by technology and the fast changes happening in the mobility sector.

Social Innovation and Technology at Velo-city 2020 Ljubljana

While rapid technological development and innovation offer an exciting opportunity to re-think, re-shape and transform the way we live, it is important to keep in mind that technological progress shouldn’t become an end in itself - putting the needs of people at the forefront should be the priority. This is one of the reasons why great focus in creating the Velo-city 2020 programme has been put on the social aspect of cycling innovation.

 
How can we ensure that accelerated changes happening are benefiting the people and enhance the quality of life? How do we keep technological solutions socially inclusive? What is – or should be – the role of cycling in empowering socially excluded groups? What are some negatives – if any – of such changes in the cycling and mobility sector? What are some of the innovative approaches that could help improve cycling education and awareness-raising? How can we take advantage of social media to steer the focus on cycling and make it a place for interactive communication with decision-makers and the broader cycling community?

These are just some of the questions that we will try to address at Velo-city 2020 Ljubljana, but the list is endless - just like the opportunities within the cycling movement!

The Social Innovation and Technology subtheme will, therefore, be addressed from different viewpoints and interwoven in sessions that might not address it directly. It goes the other way around too - some sessions specifically dedicated to technology will bring to light challenges of innovation for urban and mobility planning that puts people at the center of discussion.

We are excited to bring together experts, decision-makers and cycling enthusiasts and encourage them to challenge each other as well as other Velo-citizens on the present and future of cycling experience around the world.