ABSTRACT
Urbanisation across the region of Asia and the Pacific is not uniform, but its general trajectory is characterised by rapid urban growth, widening socio-economic and spatial inequality, and increasing environmental degradation and pollution. Cities across the region suffer from informal and unregulated growth, poverty, and environmental problems ranging from bad air quality to disaster vulnerability, all presenting challenges to liveability. Liveability can be broadly defined as the quality of life and wellbeing supported by robust governance systems with equitable access to efficient urban services and quality infrastructure. Deriving from Asian Development Bank's experiences and its role in the field, this chapter observes and reflects on making liveable cities in Asia and the Pacific, analysing issues like urban planning and policy, socio-economic development, climate vulnerability, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This chapter draws implications for policy recommendations and future research to achieve liveability in the region in the context of the pandemic and rising smart cities.
