Inclusive Urban Futures: From Inequality to Opportunity
Inclusive Urban Futures: From Inequality to Opportunity
February 23, 2026
More than 2.2 billion people in Asia and the Pacific live in cities, and by 2050 another 1.2 billion are expected to move to urban areas. While cities have created jobs and opportunities, many people are still left behind.
Across the region, 697 million people live in slums, more than 65 per cent of urban workers are in informal and insecure jobs, and 2.3 billion people are exposed to unsafe air pollution. Women, youth, older persons, migrants, persons with disabilities and low-income workers are often the most affected.
This report looks at how to make cities more inclusive, safe and resilient in line with SDG 11. It focuses on three priorities: affordable housing and basic services, decent and inclusive jobs, and healthier urban environments. It also highlights the importance of strong governance, better financing, innovation, and partnerships to ensure that no one and no place is left behind.