Paul Krugman in Padua: Rethinking Urban Wealth and Architecture for Human Well-Being

On Friday, April 4, the University of Padua hosted a landmark international symposium titled “The Wealth of Nations and the Role of Architecture for an Urban Economy Focused on Human Well-Being,” organized by the Italian National Council of Architects, Planners, Landscapers and Conservators (CNAPPC). The event featured Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman, who delivered a powerful and timely keynote address.

A Thoughtful Institutional Opening

The symposium began with institutional greetings from key figures in academia and government: Antonio Parbonetti (Vice-Rector of the University of Padua), Paola Valbonesi (Director of the Department of Economics and Business Sciences “Marco Fanno”), Andrea Micalizzi (Deputy Mayor of Padua), and Roberto Righetto (President of FOAV and the local Order of Architects). Massimo Crusi, CNAPPC President, formally opened the event, followed by remarks from Senator Roberto Rosso, rapporteur of the new Urban Regeneration Law.

Paul Krugman: “Stable Cities, Stable Nations”

At 3:15 PM, Paul Krugman took the stage with a lecture titled “On the Stability of the Deplorables,” reflecting on the economic structures that can either deepen urban inequality or unlock inclusive growth. Krugman emphasized the need for urban planning that places human dignity, accessibility, and local resilience at the center of economic development.

Urban Challenges and Future Visions

The first thematic session, led by Catherine Gall (Executive Director of ETI Research, Sorbonne Paris), addressed contemporary struggles in urban life and governance:

• Carlos Moreno (Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne) explored the power of proximity as a pillar for sustainable and inclusive cities.

• Karima Kourtit (Open University, Netherlands) reflected on the emotional and social bonds that shape cities in crisis.

After a short coffee break, the second session, titled “What Kind of Cities Do We Want to Live In?”, opened with a series of thought-provoking talks:

• Philippe Rahm (Philippe Rahm Architects) made a compelling case for bioclimatic architecture.

• Robin Wells (Princeton University) examined principles of urban equity.

• Roberto Antonietti and Peter Nijkamp contributed insights on forgotten cities, climate resilience, and the global role of local policy.

• The session concluded with reflections from Giuseppe Cappochin, former CNAPPC President.

A Forum with Impact

With over a hundred in-person attendees and a wide online audience, the event marked a significant moment in the evolving conversation about sustainable, human-centered urbanism. It made clear that architecture, economics, and policy must work hand in hand to shape cities that are resilient, inclusive, and designed for everyday life.

“There can be no real prosperity without urban justice,” Krugman reminded the audience — a message that resonated with architects, planners, and civic leaders alike.

This symposium reaffirmed Italy’s role as a thought leader in global urban transformation and highlighted the urgency of placing human well-being at the heart of city design.