Urbanization now and then: New challenges

In this video we explored how urbanization today differs from prior waves of urbanization: it occurs at enormous speeds, in countries with weaker governments and lower levels of incomes.

We also saw for 20 African countries, almost all measures of living standards are higher in cities than they are in the countryside. Still, there are huge challenges that cities in developing countries face when it comes to the provision of basic infrastructure such as water, sewerage, electricity or roads.

But today’s growing cities also have access to technologies that were previously not available: electric cars, bike-share schemes and high-rise buildings.

In addition, data collected via new technologies can be used to gain a better understanding of cities and thereby improve policy-making.

About 66% of the world’s population is projected to live in cities by 2050, and 90% of the increase in urban populations will take place in Africa and Asia. Cities are therefore at the center stage of sustainable development.

• What do you think are the main reasons why people move into cities around the world?