The Role of Art and Politics in Urban Transformation

The speaker, a former artist and mayor of Tirana, discusses how art and color were used as political tools to transform the city, revitalize public spaces, and reduce crime. By modernizing administration and fighting corruption, the speaker highlights the importance of system and organization over individual conscience. The talk emphasizes the role of politics in change, the power of social networks, and the need for bottom-up political engagement.

What was one of the main challenges the speaker faced as mayor of Tirana?

• Lack of public interest in art

• Demolition of illegal constructions

• High crime rates

• Insufficient funding for education

How did the speaker respond to the French E.U. official's objection to the colors used?

• Agreed to change the colors

• Held a press conference

• Refused to compromise on colors

• Stopped the painting project

What was the public's reaction to the color initiative according to the poll?

• Majority were indifferent

• Majority wanted it to stop

• Majority disliked it but wanted it to continue

• Majority liked it and wanted it to continue

What change in behavior was observed after the color initiative?

• Higher crime rates

• Decreased tax payments

• Increased littering

• Improved public safety perception

What was one of the measures taken to fight corruption in Tirana?

• Increasing police presence

• Hiring more clerks

• Raising taxes

• Building a new reception hall

What was the speaker's view on the cause of corruption in the administration?

• It is inevitable in developing countries

• It is caused by lack of education

• It is a result of poor organization

• It is due to genetic predisposition

According to the speaker, what is necessary to combat corruption in countries like Albania?

• Reinventing people

• Modernization of government

• International intervention

• Strict law enforcement

How did Barack Obama successfully mobilize people during his campaign?

• By holding large rallies

• Through social networks

• By offering financial incentives

• Through traditional media

What does the speaker suggest is crucial for effective politics?

• Centralized decision-making

• Bottom-up engagement

• Strict laws

• Top-down leadership

What message does the speaker convey about individual potential for change?

• Change is only possible through government

• Individuals have limited impact

• Everyone can contribute to change

• Change is unnecessary