Urbanisation - with its challenges and also its opportunities - is unanimously recognised as a megatrend in current and future population dynamics. It is expected that by 2050 the global proportion of people living in cities will raise to about 70%. Besides, 6 million people will enter the global urban slum population annually, unless significant improvements are made. Moreover, it is increasingly understood that urban and rural development should – and can - be worked out in a holistic and synergetic manner.

Cities are the loci of local democracy and of decisions regarding the provision of basic social and public services. Worldwide, subnational and local authorities have long been partnering with other stakeholders involved in sustainable development, such as higher education institutions, academia, the private sector and civil society as well as with national governments and international organisations, for ensuring the economic, social and environmental prosperity of their communities. Furthermore, a long history of decentralised cooperation programmes is linking developed and
developing cities and regions, translating action into concrete impact.

Special event organized by DESA/DSD with Local Authorities Major Groups. The outcome will be reported to the inaugural HLPF on 24 September.