Special Interest Groups

The PASCAL International Observatory Special Interest Groups (SIGs) bring together experts, practitioners, and policymakers to explore focused themes that advance the broader mission of learning cities and regions.

These groups serve as collaborative platforms for research, dialogue, and innovation around pressing global challenges and opportunities, connecting academic insights with community-based action.

Through workshops, publications, and exchanges, the SIGs generate practical knowledge and policy recommendations that strengthen lifelong learning as a force for social, environmental, and economic transformation.

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Education for Sustainability SIG

This group brings together experts and city-stakeholders interested in exploring how learning cities can foster environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and sustainable practices across education, governance, and daily life.

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Peacebuilding SIG

This group brings together experts across the globe focused on the role of learning in promoting social cohesion, intercultural understanding, and conflict prevention and mitigation within communities and across regions, with critical and applied expertise in conflict-affected regions in particular.

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Creative Circular Economies SIG

This group collectively and expertly examines how creativity, innovation, and learning can drive circular economic models, which reduce waste, regenerate resources, and empower local citizens, grassroots organisation, social enterprises and city-stakeholders toward more inclusive flourishing.