Pavel Velkovsky

Pavel Velkovsky

Partnerships Intern

Pavel is a law student at the University of Washington and holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and French from UC Berkeley. He has worked as a legal assistant at Sanford Heisler Sharp, a public interest and employment law firm headquartered in Washington DC. Pavel is passionate about energy and environmental policy and hopes to contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable world.

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Freedom Cities

Freedom Cities

Freedom Cities offer a bold vision for revitalizing American innovation by streamlining regulations, fast-tracking housing and infrastructure, and fostering cutting-edge industries like biotech, aeronautics, and clean energy. This research paper outlines how Freedom Cities can unlock billions in investment, create hundreds of thousands of jobs, and restore U.S. competitiveness by leveraging federal land and private-sector partnerships.

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Build the Presidio Freedom City

In the Palladium article ‘Build the Presidio Freedom City’, Mark Lutter and Jeffrey Mason explore the potential of transforming San Francisco’s Presidio into a cutting-edge Freedom City. They discuss how this initiative could bypass regulatory constraints, boost technological innovation, and lower housing costs, positioning the U.S. as a global leader in emerging industries. Drawing inspiration from Shenzhen’s success, the article argues that a Freedom City could reignite America’s pioneering spirit and economic vitality in the face of growing competition from China.

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Nick Allen

Charter Cities Podcast Episode 71: Nick Allen on Freedom Cities

In this episode, Nick Allen from the Frontier Foundation delves into the concept of Freedom Cities, highlighting their potential to rejuvenate American urban landscapes and industries. He explores the historical context of city formation in the U.S., the necessity of supporting emerging industries, and the crucial role of coalition-building among stakeholders. The conversation addresses regulatory reform, housing affordability, and the importance of federal support in making Freedom Cities a reality, offering insightful perspectives on reshaping America’s urban future. Join the conversation!

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Podcast ft Atossa on Freeports

Charter Cities Podcast Episode 70: Atossa Araxia Abrahamian on Freeports, Free Zones, and The Hidden Globe

In this episode, Mark Lutter sits down with Atossa, author of The Hidden Globe, to delve into the unconventional world of special economic zones, freeports, and the shifting boundaries of sovereignty. From the peculiarities of Geneva’s free zones to the unique openness of Svalbard, Atossa unpacks how alternative governance structures challenge traditional notions of the nation-state. The conversation explores the history, evolution, and ethical dilemmas of free zones, global citizenship markets, and innovative urban projects like charter cities. With thought-provoking insights and engaging anecdotes, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how governance and globalization are reshaping the modern world. Watch the full conversation on our YouTube channel!

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New Cities Summit

Registration Now Open!

Join us in Nairobi, Kenya, on June 12-13, 2025, for the premier event on our urban future. Connect with global leaders, investors, and experts shaping the next generation of cities.

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