Urban Governance for Poverty Reduction and Social Development: Tools, Techniques and Good Practices

Abstract

This Fourth Asian Mayors' Forum and Regional Workshop focused on the exchange of tools and best practices for poverty reduction and social development in urban areas using case studies of participating cities. It was recognized that cities are confronted with new challenges such as rapid urbanization, economic globalization and an information revolution. As a consequence, new urban problems are emerging. The nature of these challenges and problems may vary from city to city, but many basic issues are similar. Local governments, municipalities and civil society are looking for new answers to those challenges and problems. Alone and in partnerships they try new approaches. Some cities have found innovative solutions for their problems and translated them into good practices and procedures. There is an ever growing pool of knowledge about innovative approaches to urban problems. It is obvious that other cities may be able to learn from the experience gained.