The new millennium heralded the start of the age of cities. For the first time in the history of mankind the majority of the world's population is now living in cities: Whereas in the mid-20th century the share of urban dwellers in the global population was only 30 per cent, that share exceeded 50 per cent for the first time in 2008 – and the trend is upwards. According to estimates, by 2050 some 80 per cent of the world's population will be living in urban centres. This growth is focused almost ex­clu­sively in developing countries, as are, consequently, the potentials and challenges of sustainable development. more - Background: the age of cities

Sustainable urban development is the key to achieving international climate targets and the Mil­len­nium Development Goals (MDGs). That is why it is an important field of German development policy activity. More than 210 urban development projects with a total volume of some 2.1 billion euros (Technical and Financial Cooperation) are currently being carried out in over 50 countries. The aim is to create cities that are worth living in, so that they can provide diverse opportunities for shaping life and development. Current urbanisation and the associated socioeconomic changes cannot be mortgaged against future generations, but should provide them with opportunities. more - Urban development: an important field of development policy activity

Here you will find a selection of links to documents and websites with further information on urban development issues. more - Further information