AESOP Task Force on AI in Planning
CALL FOR MEMBERSHIP
Deadline: November 15, 2025
Organizers: Juliana Martins, Paulo Silva, Thorsten Wiechmann
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the landscape of urban planning, research, education, and practice. Recognizing its potential and challenges, the AESOP CoRep decided during its meeting in Istanbul in July to establish an AESOP Task Force on AI in Planning. This initiative aims to comprehensively address these developments while aligning with global efforts, particularly the parallel Task Force on Urban Planning AI recently launched by ACSP.
Aims of the Task Force
Over the next two years, the task force aims to address the following objectives:
- Examine the role and impact of AI in planning practice and the profession, including opportunities and challenges presented by AI technologies as well as specific tools used in planning.
- Support the integration of AI themes and competencies into planning education.
- Explore the potential applications of AI in planning research.
- Promote ethical and equitable urban planning practices involving AI.
Planned Tasks
The establishment of this AESOP Task Force responds to growing demands within academia and professional circles to better understand how emerging technologies can enhance urban planning processes while addressing ethical concerns related to equity and transparency. To kick off this initiative, an initial phase is planned until July 2026 to lay the groundwork for subsequent activities. Specific tasks during this period include:
- Formation of an AESOP Task Force on AI in Planning
- Conducting an online survey among AESOP member schools
- Coordination with ACSP’s parallel task force
- Development of a work program for post-2026 activities
- Hosting webinars focused on AI in planning
- Preparing two special sessions at the World Planning Schools Congress 2026 in Aalto
Organization
The Task Force will be composed of a core group of 10 to 15 members, alongside an extended circle open to all interested AESOP members. Meetings will primarily take place online or in a hybrid format, with an in-person meeting planned during the WPSC in June 2026 in Aalto.
Membership Application
This call for membership is open to anyone interested in actively contributing to the above-mentioned activities. Applications from scholars at all career stages are welcome—particularly those with expertise or practical experience regarding AI applications within planning.
If you would like to participate in this initiative, please submit your expression of interest by November 15, 2025. Your application should include:
- A brief outline (max. 300 words) detailing your personal interest in joining the task force, your research perspectives, and possible contributions.
- A short CV that includes relevant publications or projects.
Please send your application via email to
