As Asia and the Pacific undergo a remarkable urban transformation, the region is preparing to accommodate an additional 1.2 billion people by 2050—an influx roughly equivalent to the entire population of ASEAN. This pressing challenge has prompted government leaders, city planners, and development experts to convene at the 81st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). Their discussions emphasize the need for stronger regional cooperation to foster resilient and sustainable urban futures.
United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, highlighted the urgency of rethinking urban growth and functionality. “Urbanisation is more than just managing growth—it’s about transforming cities into hubs of innovation, resilience, and equity,” she stated. This perspective underscores the multifaceted nature of urbanization, which extends beyond mere population increases to encompass the quality of life and opportunities available to urban residents.
While cities have historically been engines of economic growth, the rapid urbanization in the region is intensifying social and environmental pressures. Alarmingly, one in three urban residents still lacks access to basic services. Climate change exacerbates these challenges, with rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme flooding posing significant threats to coastal megacities. Additionally, a substantial portion of the urban population remains trapped in poverty, often residing in slums or informal settlements.
“This is the paradox we face,” Alisjahbana remarked. “Our cities are engines of opportunity but also centers of vulnerability. But there is hope.” This duality highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions that can harness the potential of urban areas while addressing their inherent vulnerabilities.
The Asia-Pacific region, home to over 2.2 billion urban residents and seven of the world’s largest megacities, stands at the forefront of global urban solutions. United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohamed emphasized that by collaborating, countries can close inequalities, mitigate climate impacts, and empower women, all while driving investments that advance multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Philemon Yang, President of the United Nations General Assembly, pointed out that urban areas across the region experience social, economic, and climate vulnerabilities in vastly different ways. This disparity often prevents the benefits of economic growth from reaching all urban dwellers equally, highlighting the need for tailored approaches that consider local contexts.
On the first day of the session, remarks from leaders such as the Prime Minister of Thailand and the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh underscored key priorities for governments. These include harmonizing national and local policies in critical areas like housing and transport, improving subnational data collection to inform evidence-based urban policy, and strengthening urban planning to accommodate aging populations and growing migrant communities. Additionally, diversifying urban financing through robust municipal revenue systems was emphasized as essential for sustainable development.
“We must have well-planned urban development to ensure that we achieve resilient and sustainable urban development,” stated Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nepal and Chair of the 81st session. She called for investments in inclusive, green, and resilient cities, advocating for strengthened urban networks and city-to-city cooperation to proactively address demographic transitions.
The discussions at the session are informed by findings from a new ESCAP study titled Urban Transformation in Asia and the Pacific: From Growth to Resilience. This report offers policy solutions and showcases cities in the region that are already pioneering innovative changes. It emphasizes the transformative potential of green infrastructure, smart technologies, and inclusive urban planning in creating cities that serve everyone effectively.
Moreover, the report stresses the necessity for coordinated action at all levels, warning that the Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved without cities leading the charge. Bob Rae, President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), highlighted the crucial role of local and regional authorities in developing and implementing sustainable solutions to urban challenges, noting that two-thirds of SDG targets depend on local-level action.
The 81st ESCAP session is expected to culminate on Friday with the endorsement of regional resolutions that will strengthen cooperation on the water and climate change nexus, promote sustainable urban development, and advance the sustainable development of middle-income countries. This collaborative effort aims to create a roadmap for resilient urban futures in the Asia-Pacific region.
