The world's urban population now exceeds the world's rural population. What does this mean for the state of our cities, given the strain this global demographic shift is placing upon current urban infrastructures?Following on from previous State of the World's Cities reports, this edition uses the framework of 'The Urban Divide' to analyse the complex social, political, economic and cultural dynamics of urban environments. In particular, the book focuses on the concept of the 'right to the city' and ways in which many urban dwellers are excluded from the advantages of city life, using the framework to explore links among poverty, inequality, slum formation and economic growth. The volume will be essential reading for all professionals and policymakers in the field, as well as a valuable resource for researchers and students in all aspects of urban development. Published with UN-Habitat.

Part 01: Urban Trends1.1 Cross-Currents in Global Urbanization1.2 The Wealth of Cities1.3 Slum Dwellers: Proportions are Declining, but Numbers are GrowingPart 02: The Urban Divide2.1 The Urban Divide: Overview and Perspectives2.2 The Economic Divide: Urban Income Inequalities2.3 The Spatial Divide: Marginalization and its Outcomes2.4 The Opportunity Divide: When the 'Urban Advantage' Eludes the Poor2.5 The Social Divide: Impact on Bodies and MindsPart 03: Bridging the Urban Divide3.1 Taking Forward the Right to the City3.2 The Regional Dynamics of Inclusion3.3 The Five Steps to an Inclusive City