ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the main results of the most set of estimates and projections of world urbanization produced by the United Nations population division, namely the 2001 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects. As in the full report produced by the United Nations, it focuses on the estimated dynamics of urbanization during 1950-2000 and those projected for 2000-2030. The estimates and projections are based on the reported proportions of persons living in urban areas. The overview of world urbanization trends is based on the most comprehensive set of data available on the subject. The chapter helps the reader to reassess the value of using the urban-rural dichotomy to assess urbanization levels and trends. Both researchers and policy makers require more detailed information about the process of urbanization which constitutes one of the major transformations that humanity has undergone during its life on earth.
