The Argentine smart cities strategy

The Argentine Smart Cities Strategy is rooted in the current context of rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, and the growing need for sustainability. In response to these challenges, the national government launched the State Modernisation Plan to prepare cities for present and future demands. The concept of a ‘smart city’ has evolved over time and is now closely tied to sustainability, addressing both physical and social aspects to improve quality of life. It seeks to enhance urban living through better housing, public services, transportation, environmental protection, and economic development. The strategy emphasises the importance of building infrastructure and human capacities while promoting efficiency through data-driven decision-making, with digital technologies playing a central role.

At the core of the strategy lies the ‘Smart Cities Model’ developed by País Digital. This model focuses on five key dimensions: governance, environment, human development, urban planning, and competitiveness. Each dimension is structured around thematic axes and specific factors, evaluated through more than 300 internationally recognised indicators. This comprehensive approach allows for detailed diagnostics and the establishment of baseline assessments, helping cities identify strengths and areas for improvement. It provides governments with a planning tool to prioritise projects and initiatives with the greatest potential impact on their communities.

The strategy also prioritises strengthening local governments by deploying digital tools tailored to each city’s level of development. These tools include solutions for municipal services, IT infrastructure, and open government, all aimed at improving administrative efficiency and reducing paperwork. Moreover, the strategy supports the development of five smart city pilot projects across Argentina, promoting coordinated actions among different government levels, citizens, and the private sector. The ultimate goal is to foster sustainable urban development, enhance citizens’ quality of life, and boost local competitiveness through a replicable model that can be adapted across the country.