London has been ranked number one in a 2015 index of the world’s most powerful cities for the fourth time in a row, largely thanks to its strong economy.
The Global Power City Index, by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies, ranks cities by six measures, including their economy, research and development, cultural interaction, livability, environment and accessibility.
London ascended to the top of the rankings in 2012, partly thanks to the success of the Olympic Games in 2012. This year, it ranked top for cultural interactions, and second for both accessibility and economy. New York, which lost the top spot in 2012, still beats London on research and development, while Geneva, Frankfurt, Stockholm, Zurich and Vienna take the top five spots when it comes to the environment. Paris has stayed in third place since 2008. It is the weakest of the top four cities in Economy, but is ranked in the top five for Livability, Accessibility, Cultural Interaction and Research and Development.
London Mayor and MP Boris Johnson commented “With a thriving economy, an unrivalled cultural scene, numerous top sporting venues, some of the best universities in the world, a low crime rate and much else besides, it is no wonder that London continues to outstrip other cities across the world. As London grows to record levels we are working hard to build the new homes and deliver the infrastructure that will ensure we remain a global powerhouse for decades to come”.
