In 2020, numerous dialogue events, expert missions and local workshops took place in a virtual format. These new formats enabled a needs-driven exchange and strengthened the joint development of new ideas and practical solutions. In response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Connective Cities launched the virtual event series: "Municipal Responses to the Covid-19 Pandemic ". The event series provided a virtual platform and series of events for sharing municipal responses, challenges and solutions to overcome the Covid-19 crisis. The following topics were in focus:
- containing the pandemic - public health care
- resilient communities – sustaining municipal services
- lockdown management – crisis management
- digitalisation as crisis mitigation strategy
- economic development – maintenance, reconstruction and recovery
- solidarity and equality
- local economic development in and after the crisis
Approximately 800 people from 344 different municipalities around the world participated and discussed appropriate, rapid and sustainable responses to the crisis caused by the virus. Some municipal actors presented good practices.