UNESCO has spotlighted China’s “12345” hotline as a shining example for cities around the world. Shahbaz Khan, director at UNESCO’s East Asia office, praised the hotline during the 2024 Beijing Forum on Swift Response to Public Complaints.
“The ‘12345’ hotline demonstrates how listening to public opinion and solving grassroots issues can lead to shared prosperity,” Khan stated. He emphasized the importance of learning from initiatives in the Global South that tailor solutions to local needs.
The “12345” hotline allows citizens to voice complaints and concerns directly to local governments. Every issue raised receives a responsible and swift response, ensuring that practical problems are addressed promptly.
Khan encouraged other cities to adopt similar systems, highlighting that effective communication channels between governments and citizens are crucial for societal development. “By embracing such models, we can foster a more inclusive and responsive governance worldwide,” he added.
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UNESCO: China's "12345" hotline worth emulating for cities worldwide
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