Specific conditions for the post-socialist cities’ operation and development in the context of contemporary challenges

Abstract

The article presents the specific economic, social, and spatial conditions of post-socialist cities, comparing them with the development models characteristic of Western European cities (the welfare-state model). Particular attention is given to historical and structural factors that continue to influence the functioning and adaptability of these cities. Subsequently, the authors identify major contemporary challenges facing European cities, including globalization, the digitalization of the economy, population ageing, linear economic models, and climate change. Among these, population ageing and adaptation to climate change are analyzed in detail. The core part of the paper consists of a critical review and evaluation of development strategies adopted by selected post-socialist cities (Kraków, Warsaw, Prague, Vilnius, and Bratislava), enriched by comparisons with a Western European city (Berlin). The authors concentrate on evaluating the proactive and reactive strategies local governments employ to address current challenges. In the concluding section, an original evaluation of the effectiveness of public policies and social involvement is presented, providing key recommendations for the further development of post-socialist cities.