This report is a reflection of current debates on issues raised by the dramatic changes that rapid urbanization has brought to bear on the citizens in the Asian and Pacific region. It comprised four papers. There was a need for a retrospective look at "Where we have come from : a historical perspective and major trends" followed by an examination of "How cities function and the need for a new approach to policy formulation." Current macroeconomic changes and their impact on the poor would be the subject of the third paper and the fourth would be a forward-looking paper dealing with institutional change "The new urban contract". (Adapté de la préface).

In a rapidly urbanizing and globalized world, cities have been the epicentres of COVID-19 (coronavirus). The virus has spread to virtually all parts of the world; first, among globally connected cities, then through community transmission and from the city to the countryside. This report shows that the intrinsic value of sustainable urbanization can and should be harnessed for the wellbeing of all. It provides evidence and policy analysis of the value of urbanization from an economic, social and environmental perspective. It also explores the role of innovation and technology, local governments, targeted investments and the effective implementation of the New Urban Agenda in fostering the value of sustainable urbanization.