Urban development research
id21 is the free development research reporting service, bringing you UK-sourced research on developing countries

Slum improvement should involve local people and create jobs
More people are moving to cities and slums are growing. Traditional government planning practices cannot solve the problems of slums. A Kenyan project shows how government, business and the community can successfully work together to upgrade slums and enable inhabitants to take part in the decisions that affect their lives.

What can be done for China's temporary urban population?
China's internal passport system - known as 'Hukou' - prevents permanent migration to urban areas. Some 120 million unofficial urban residents are denied access to many services. In rural areas land requisition policies and lack of secure tenure reduce agricultural production, create resentment and help drive more families to the cities.

Peaceful urbanisation in East Africa
Strong ethnic identities can impede urbanisation and the stability of the nation state in East Africa. The transplanting of rural tribal identities to urban capitals has often led to urban tension and even national violence in the past. Dar es Salaam, a major city and former capital of Tanzania, stands out as a striking alternative. The Creole foundations and cosmopolitan outlook of this city has allowed it to develop peacefully.

Progress in making urban development sustainable
A modern city can only be truly successful if it can demonstrate its commitment to protecting the environment. Officials must recognise the city's natural assets, create efficient water, energy and transport infrastructure and protect its citizens against the impacts of climate change. Sound environmental management can boost city budgets, attract investors and contribute to public health and poverty eradication.

In defence of Africa's informal sector
For decades, development theorists and African leaders stigmatised informal employment as an unfortunate reality set to disappear as 'modernisation' spread. The police often harassed street traders, petty artisans and inhabitants of unauthorised settlements. By the 1990s attitudes were often more tolerant, but is South Africa returning to former prejudice?

Other research highlights

Health impacts of climate change in urban Asia

Preparing for climate change with urban children in mind

Adapting to flood risks in urban Africa

Action needed to provide affordable bandwidth for Africa

Bringing business to cities in China, India and Brazil