This report throws new light on current issues and challenges which national and local governments, the business sector and organised civil society are facing. On top of putting forward a number of recommendations, the report testifies to the wealth of good, innovative practice that countries of all sizes and development stages have accumulated across the region. It shows us that sustainable human settlements are within reach, and that cooperation between public authorities, the private and the voluntary sectors is the key to success. The report highlights a number of critical issues – demographic and economic trends, poverty and inequality, the environment, climate change, natural disaster and urban governance and management.
The report also states that no other region in the world is more exposed to natural hazards. Asia-Pacific owes most of its prosperity to coastal cities which are vulnerable to sea-level rise. The imminent effects of climate change are compounding the issue, calling for local mitigation and adaptation strategies.
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