Rate a Public Place Near You: Build Safer Communities

Ever wonder if community services—like public bathrooms, libraries, or transit stops—are truly accessible and equitable for everyone?

You can help by doing just one thing: use your smartphone to map and rate a local public service (e.g., accessibility, safety, cleanliness). It’s a tiny tech habit that strengthens transparency, trust, and good governance — all under SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Why It Matters

  • Many local services operate without feedback from users, leading to neglect or unfair access.
  • Studies show that citizen reviews improve public accountability and encourage authorities to act faster.
  • Tech-based civic feedback platforms boost service quality and promote more inclusive decision-making.

The Tiny Action: Civic Map‑Up Challenge

  1. Pick a nearby public service — school, park restroom, bus stop, or public hall.
  2. Rate it using a feedback map or civic app, covering:
    • Cleanliness & maintenance
    • Accessibility & safety
    • Ease of use
  3. Include a quick photo or description (optional) to strengthen the entry.
  4. Submit your feedback — entries are shared with authorities or civic groups to prompt improvements.
  5. Repeat once a week — over time, you’ll build a useful community tool that highlights local needs.

Why It Works

  • Empowers citizens: turns everyday observations into actionable data.
  • Improves transparency: officials see where services need attention.
  • Strengthens community voice: collective feedback leads to better infrastructure and accountability.

How It Supports SDG 16

SDG 16 emphasizes building just, inclusive, and participatory institutions. The Civic Map‑Up Challenge promotes:

  • Public feedback loops (Target 16.6)
  • Inclusive civic participation (Target 16.7)
    By rating services, you’re helping communities shape their own environments.
    (Source: UN SDG 16)

Map It, Rate It, Improve It

Your phone can do more than swipe social media — it can help fix local services.

Join the Civic Map-Up Challenge — one review at a time, build stronger and fairer communities.

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