Digital transition based on equality, accessibility, and participation
At a time when technology is redefining how cities function, the goal is not simply the “smart city,” but the equitable city. A city that leaves no one behind, that promotes the participation of all citizens, and that harnesses innovation to reduce inequalities and exclusion.
In this context, the concepts of diversity and inclusion take on a central role: not as a theoretical principle, but as a practical prerequisite for the design of public policies and digital infrastructure. Technology, when designed properly, can become a tool for strengthening democracy and promoting equal access for all to the city.
Presentation of the “Upgrade Athens” program
In this context, the City of Athens’ new comprehensive digital and urban transformation program, titled “Upgrade Athens,” was presented on Thursday, May 28, at City Hall.
The program is being implemented in collaboration with DAEM, the digital arm of the City of Athens, and aims to radically transform the way the city operates, serves its citizens, and responds to their everyday needs.
Haris Doukas: “Technology must serve humanity and democracy”
The Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, emphasized that the program is fundamentally people-centered and does not view technology as an end in itself. “Upgrade Athens is a comprehensive digital upgrade program for our city, centered on people. For us, the fundamental principle is that technology must serve citizens, the environment, and democracy. The Athens we are building is not a city of sensors and algorithms. It is a city that listens to its citizens more quickly, serves them more effectively, and protects them more intelligently. True progress is measured by how human life becomes in the “smart” city. The digital transition has value only when it expands democracy, when it empowers citizens, when it reduces inequalities. “Upgrade Athens” is a commitment, a plan with clear goals and measurable results. A path of change that has already begun.”
The eight subprojects of “Upgrade Athens”
The program is based on eight key pillars of digital and urban transformation:
Athens Smart Clean – Smart Cleaning Management
City cleaning is being digitized through the “Athens, Clean City” system. Residents will be able to schedule appointments for the removal of bulky items, while 360 “smart” garbage trucks equipped with telematics and 1,000 sensors in trash bins will enable targeted interventions where there is a real need.
Athens Civil Alert – Citizens as Active Sensors of the City
Through the Athens Civil Alert app, residents can report incidents such as fires, floods, or fallen trees. Reports are sent directly to the Municipality’s Operations Center, while the Municipal Police respond immediately and the citizen is kept informed of developments. The system is based on IoT technologies and interoperability, enhancing prevention and enabling a faster response.
Athens Hub – Digital Neighborhoods and Participation
Neighborhoods are being transformed into “smart hubs” equipped with Wi-Fi, environmental sensors, and digital signage. At the same time, tools are being developed to encourage citizen participation through consultations, voting, and proposals, thereby strengthening the role of local democracy.
E-Bike Sharing – Sustainable Micro-Mobility
A new network of 50 stations and 340 electric bicycle charging stations is being established throughout the city. The goal is to reduce traffic, promote sustainable transportation, and improve air quality.
Athens Gov – Digital services powered by artificial intelligence
A unified digital assistant uses artificial intelligence to assist citizens, track requests, and schedule appointments. At the same time, open data platforms and municipal procedure registries are being developed.
Athens Way – Smart Mobility
A comprehensive mobility management system integrates traffic, parking, and public transportation. Residents will be able to plan routes and pay for parking services digitally in real time.
Cost savings in schools
Sensors installed in school buildings are used to monitor energy and water consumption. The data is used to implement targeted interventions, while environmental education activities for students are developed through gamification.
Access control in the commercial district
Downtown Athens is getting a new controlled vehicle access system, with the aim of promoting sustainable mobility, protecting public spaces, and improving the urban experience.
The pillars of DAEM’s digital strategy
At the end of the presentation, DAEM CEO Lazaros Karaoulis outlined the organization’s six strategic pillars: digital transformation, citizen services and artificial intelligence, smart cities, mobility and parking, security and cybersecurity, as well as sustainability and social policy.
A new model for cities
“Upgrade Athens” seeks to link technological progress with social cohesion, redefining the concept of the modern city. In this model, technology does not operate in isolation, but is integrated into a broader framework of democracy, participation, and equal access for all citizens.
