Cities share practical pathways to becoming AI-ready through stronger digital governance

Digital transformation is about far more than adopting new technologies?it requires the governance, infrastructure and institutional coordination to turn data into better public services. During an IURC Community of Practice session, representatives from the Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB), Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) and Kaohsiung showcased different approaches to building data-driven cities that are ready for the next generation of AI-enabled services.

AMB presented a governance-first strategy centred on shared digital infrastructure, including a metropolitan GIS, automated workflows and real-time monitoring tools that enable municipalities to reuse reliable data and deliver more efficient public services. Incheon outlined its transition from a “Smart City” to an “AI City”, combining responsible AI principles, regulatory frameworks and specialised innovation districts to create a structured roadmap for AI deployment. Meanwhile, Kaohsiung demonstrated how integrating data from thousands of sensors and multiple municipal departments into a unified cloud platform has strengthened cross-department coordination and accelerated decision-making.

Despite their different approaches, the three cities shared a common message: successful digital transformation begins with governance rather than technology. Strong data standards, shared platforms, responsible AI frameworks and effective coordination mechanisms provide the foundations needed to scale digital services and build public trust. Participants gained practical insights into how cities can develop AI-ready administrations while ensuring that innovation delivers tangible benefits for citizens.

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