Cities that Work
Cities that Work is an IGC initiative that builds on our work to translate economic research and practical insight into clear urban policy guidance.
Policymakers across the developing world are at a critical juncture, where well-implemented, evidence-based urban policies have the potential to unlock a process of sustainable economic growth that can lift millions out of poverty.
A new body of economic research and data is enhancing our understanding of the policy choices which shape this process. This research must be harnessed for practical application, providing clear policy solutions to the pressing issues governments face surrounding rapid urbanisation.
Cities that Work fosters new evidence and analysis of urban economics, and combines it with the hard-won knowledge of urban planning practitioners and policymakers to inform urban policy. Our aim is to develop a policy-focused synthesis of research, evidence-based policy tools, and a global ‘network’ of individuals with a shared vision for urban research and policy.
Our work informs decision-making in four key urban policy areas:
Land is a city’s most valuable resource, but without active policy is liable to be badly misused.
Cities are where economic development really happens.
The backbone for rising productivity and living standards in a city.
In rapidly developing cities, large public investments are needed to improve the quality of life of citizens and provide the conditions for long-term economic growth.
