OneCity

Project Description OneCity is a research initiative comprising six studies that aim to understand obstacles for the socio-political and economic participation of marginalised urban youth, and to identify new pathways that leverage digital technology for meaningful youth participation in urban governance. Using participatory and mixed-methods research, OneCity focuses on youth from communities in Kingston, St. Andrew, and Montego Bay that are characterised by high levels of inequality, poverty, and violence.

The project also evaluates the impact of technology-driven urban planning, governance, and development initiatives in these areas. By analysing the efficacy of these programs, OneCity provides actionable insights for designing and improving similar initiatives to integrate marginalised youth into the mainstream socio-political and economic life of the modern city.

Grounded in principles of inclusion, innovation, and integration, OneCity aims to inform urban planning, governance, and development in Jamaica and beyond.

Study #1 - The Right to the City This study explores the social, economic, and environmental barriers that prevent urban Jamaican residents—especially marginalised youth—from fully exercising their "Right to the City." The research focuses on mapping 14 key indicators that measure access to essential resources and opportunities including land tenure, safety, education, employment, healthcare, and more. These 14 indicators are consolidated into the Urban Integration Index, a composite measure that evaluates the extent to which urban communities are integrated into social, economic, and infrastructural systems.

Users can explore these indicators and the Urban Integration Index for communities in Kingston, St. Andrew, and St. James through the OneCity Explorer which offers interactive visualizations and customizable data layers for analysis.

Access the OneCity Explorer here.

For instructions on how to navigate the dashboard, please read the user manual.
The indicator datasets can be downloaded below. 

Urban Integration Index
[Link to Download Data]

Stay tuned for the Study 1 report, launching soon (early 2025)

Study #2 - Youth Participation in Urban Development This study will identify obstacles and opportunities for youth participation in urban development. This study aims to understand the needs of urban youth and amplify youth voices in decision-making by analysing voting patterns, community programming, and other governance matters.

Study #3 - Integrating Urban Youth This study will focus on efforts by state and civil society actors to enhance the “Right to the City” for marginalised youth living in ZOSO communities.

Study #4 - Digital Technology and Urban Integration This study will explore how digital technologies can boost the ability of youth in ZOSO communities to participate fully in urban life.

Study #5 - Digital Governance This study will assess the impact of Jamaica’s digital governance initiatives on urban youth. It will evaluate tools such as digital currency (JAM-DEX), the National Identification System (NIDS), and the JamaicaEye surveillance system, focusing on their usefulness in improving safety, accessibility, and autonomy for young people in urban areas.

Study #6 - Improving Jamaica’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) This study will provide actionable recommendations for enhancing Jamaica’s digital public infrastructure. By assessing current technologies and identifying gaps, the research aims to guide the development of digital systems that advance the interests and well-being of Jamaica’s future generations.

For updates on OneCity’s progress, follow us on social media

OneCity
Block H, Sir Alister McIntyre Building,
UWI (Mona), Kgn. 07, Jamaica WI
Tel: (876) 970-3447,970-2910
Email: [email protected]