The City as a Right

Reflections on Sustainable Development Goal 11

Abstract

The article reflects on the crucial role of cities in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Using Henri Lefebvre's analytical framework, the milestones achieved by cities in this process are examined. The growing importance of cities today is highlighted, as more than half of the world's population lives in urban environments, and this migratory trend towards urbanization is expected to continue. It is emphasized that the fulfillment of goals such as equality, poverty eradication, climate change mitigation, and ensuring a healthy life will largely depend on the sustainable development of cities. Additionally, it is noted that inclusive economic growth and access to essential public services will be linked to the economic development of low- and middle-income countries. In summary, the article underscores the central role of cities in achieving global development goals and highlights the need to address their development comprehensively and sustainably.