The urban population is rapidly growing the world over. Cities draw migrants with the promise of higher living standards, but this does not necessarily translate into prosperity for all. Answers have to be worked out for water, sanitation and health problems. Within 10 years, more than half the people in the world will be living in the cities. This growth will come mainly in the world's poorest countries and many of the new urban dwellers will be among the poorest people in the world. For a successful urban future, it is necessary to engage all members of the community, especially women and the poor, in the developmental process.