Major events as a catalyst for future-oriented urban development

A proposal to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games is far more than a matter of sports policy – it touches on key issues of urban development, infrastructure, sustainability, as well as Berlin’s international positioning, and requires a clear, long-term plan for the city.

Within the framework of the “Urban Catalyst” conference, it became evident that mega-events can be understood as a strategic instrument for sustainable development. The central question was how investments, infrastructure, and urban spaces can be designed in such a way that they generate lasting social and economic value. A decisive factor in this context is the “legacy,” meaning the long-term impact on the city, its economy, and society.

International examples demonstrated that success largely depends on early and consistent integration into an overarching urban development strategy. For Berlin, it was also highlighted that mega-events can stimulate investment, create jobs, and strengthen international visibility — provided they are embedded in a viable overall concept with broad societal support.