Introduction

Abstract

Never before in history has the world population increased so rapidly. Most of the increase is taking place in developing countries of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and within these countries it is the cities that are growing fastest. By the year 2025, the world will have an estimated 652 cities with populations of over 1 million — two-thirds of them in developing countries — and meeting their basic requirements will be a major responsibility of urban local authorities. Urban management and development, and the many problems and opportunities associated with it, are now recognized as vital issues in all nations.