Local Governments’ Financial Vulnerability presents a conceptual framework developed to examine how vulnerable local finances were before and in the immediate aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis by mapping and systematising its dimensions and sources. The model is then applied to eight countries with different administrative models and traditions: Australia, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the United States. Comparative results reveal not only that COVID-19 impacts and policy tools had a lot of similarities across countries, but also that financial vulnerability has an inherently contingent nature in time and space and can lead to paradoxical outcomes. The book shows that the impact of the crisis on local governments’ finances has been postponed and that financial vulnerability is expected to increase dramatically for a few years following the pandemic, especially in larger and richer municipalities which are traditionally more autonomous and less financially vulnerable. The authors provide timely insights and analytical tools that can be useful for both academic and public policy purposes, to further appreciate local governments’ financial vulnerability, especially during crises. This book is a valuable resource for practitioners and academics, as well as students of public policy, public management, financial management, and public accounting. Local governments can use the framework to better appreciate and manage their financial vulnerability, while oversight authorities can use it to help local governments become less financially vulnerable or, at least, more aware of their financial vulnerability. Financial institutions, advisors, and rating agencies may use this publication to refine or revise their models of credit risk assessment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern business world, a critical challenge has emerged at the crossroads of digital transformation and sustainable development. Businesses grapple with the need to adapt to digitalization while ensuring their practices align with the imperatives of sustainability. The complexities of this intersection demand innovative solutions and profound insights. Enter Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development in Cities and Organizations – a groundbreaking book that unravels the intricacies of this challenge and provides a comprehensive roadmap for organizations navigating the digital age with a commitment to sustainability. Traditional business models are rendered obsolete as the relentless march of digitalization transforms industries. Amidst this upheaval, the imperative to embrace sustainable practices often takes a backseat. Businesses face the daunting task of navigating this dual challenge – staying technologically relevant while safeguarding the environment and societal well-being. The consequences of overlooking this intersection are profound, leading to missed opportunities for growth and contributing to the escalating threats posed by climate change. The need for a cohesive guide that addresses these intertwined challenges has never been more urgent.

This book is a point of departure for cities that would like to reap the many benefits of ecological and economic sustainability. It provides an analytical and operational framework that offers strategic guidance to cities on sustainable and integrated urban development.