According to United Nations estimates, two thirds of humanity will live in cities in 2050. In 1950, it was only one third. During the same period, the number of metropolises could rise from 28 to more than 40 (and by “metropolis”, we mean a settlement area of more than ten million inhabitants). While the number of people who live in urban areas is continuously rising, the rural population is noticeably shrinking. So it is not surprising that a “rural exodus” is being observed all over Europe.

by Gerhard Wahlers

On the Potential of Rural Areas in Germany and France

In both France and Germany, people are attracted to the big cities – but at the same time, the yearning for a rural life is increasing. The potential of rural regions to create identity, preserve traditions, and constitute a sense of home should not be underestimated. The economical and societal developments in the 21ˢᵗ century depend, among other things, on how the multifaceted reserves of energy in rural areas are used.

by Nino Galetti, Philipp Lerch

An Interview with Prof. Dr. Andreas Reckwitz, Professor of Comparative Cultural Sociology at the European University Viadrina in Frankfurt (Oder)

by Andreas Reckwitz

The Political Dimension of the Urban-Rural Divide in the United States

There is a chasm between urban and rural populations in the US. Donald Trump’s success in the last presidential election showed the enormity of the political implications of the urban-rural divide. It appears that it will be difficult to close this gap even in the medium term. The differences between city and countryside will therefore continue to play a decisive role in future elections.

by Céline-Agathe Caro

Safety and Security in South African Cities

Africa’s future is urban and young: by 2050, the urban population in Africa will have tripled, the number of African megacities will have quintupled, and the majority of urban residents will be young people. For some, these are the most important challenges surrounding development in Africa. Challenges such as safety and security will become an important focal point. How can crime prevention and policing keep apace with such challenges? Will Africa’s urbanisation translate into a better and economically prosperous life for all, or is it set to increase violence, inequality and mal-administration?

by Tilmann Feltes

Public Housing in Singapore as a Holistic, Multi-Dimensional Public Policy Construct

No single policy issue is as indicative of Singapore’s success and its social, cultural, and political DNA as its public housing. In a few decades, the city-state has transformed from a slum-invested port town into one of the world’s most developed nations. One cannot understand Singapore if one does not understand Singaporean public housing.

by Frederick Kliem

How City Networks Support the Global Order

Cities, which already represent more than half of the world’s population, are conquering fora traditionally reserved for nation states, such as the United Nations Climate Change Conference and the G20, sending their mayors to represent them. It is not just the practical, people-oriented approach, but also the hope for alternative models in times of great uncertainty that is putting cities in the spotlight.

by Kathrin Zeller

Society and Political Parties in Latin America

For years, Latin Americans’ trust in the established political parties has found itself in a downwards spiral. This brings young movements and political novices to the scene, who have been winning elections all over the continent lately. Nevertheless, doubts are justified as to whether these political outsiders are able to solve the myriad of crises.

by Dr. Ángel Arellano