For most of human history, most people across the world lived in small communities. However, rapid urbanisation over the last few decades has dramatically changed this landscape. Today, over half the world lives in cities – a trend that is anticipated to increase for a global population that is already growing year on year. To accomodate everyone, current and future generations to come, it is imperative we build modern and resource-efficient cities. But with challenges of overpopulation, a scarcity of space and resources, and growing pollution problems, it is no surprise that 1 billion people are currently living in urban slums.
To give access to everyone to adequate and safe housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces, SDG 11 looks towards making our cities ‘inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable’.
Better urban planning, including through participatory and inclusive local management, can help build cities that are more inclusive, healthier, and enjoy a more equitable distribution of resources.