Reinventing Haifa for the 21st Century: Einat Kalisch-Rotem’s Urban Vision

In this episode of We Are ETH, host Susan Kish speaks with Dr. Einat Kalisch-Rotem, the first woman mayor of Haifa and a visionary force in modern urban planning. Trained as an architect at ETH Zurich, Einat shares how her ETH experience shaped the bold strategies she’s using to reimagine Haifa’s future. From creating Israel’s first bilingual school to fighting for better public transportation and more livable, inclusive spaces, she reveals how thoughtful design can transform cities. Einat talks candidly about navigating political hurdles, breaking new ground in sustainable urban development, and her drive to position Haifa as a hub of culture, tourism, and innovation. This episode offers an inspiring look at how leadership, vision, and design can work together to reshape a city for the challenges of the 21st century.

(00:27) Meet Dr. Einat Kalish-Rotem: Architect, Urban Planner, and Mayor

(00:53) Zurich's Influence on Urban Planning

(01:41) Challenges and Achievements in Haifa's Infrastructure

(01:45) The Journey into Politics

(04:14) The Vision for Haifa's Future

(05:01) The Impact of Zurich on Leadership

(06:18) Anthropological Insights and Public Spaces

(10:09) Political Challenges and Triumphs

(20:42) Future Endeavors and Reflections

(22:14) Closing Thoughts and Reflections