What characterizes a Global City?

In this episode of ON CITIES, host Carie Penabad speaks with leading sociologist Alejandro Portes on his recent, groundbreaking book: Emerging Global Cities: Origins, Structure and Significance (co-authored with Ariel Armony). Portes discusses the unexpected rise of Dubai, Miami and Singapore, and how these three cities have achieved newfound global prominence through parallel trends. The conversation will elaborate on the factors that allow certain urban environments to become emerging centers of commerce, finance, art and culture for entire regions. At the same time, Portes will highlight the importance of migration and climate change to the prospects of these emerging global cities, illustrating how the economic system that propelled their rise may imperil their future. Tune in Friday, February 10 at 11:00 AM EST on the Voice American Variety network.