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Jakarta Becomes World's Most Populous Capital with 42 Million Residents

Source: Jakarta world’s most populous capital with 42 million people: UN report (2025-11-23)

Jakarta, Indonesia, has officially claimed the title of the world's most populous capital city, according to the latest United Nations report released in November 2025. With a staggering population of 42 million residents, Jakarta surpasses previous leaders and highlights the rapid urbanization trends shaping the 21st century. This development underscores the broader global shift towards urban living, with more than 45% of the world's 8.2 billion people now residing in cities. Since 1950, urban populations have more than doubled, and by 2050, it is projected that two-thirds of humanity will live in urban areas, emphasizing the importance of sustainable city planning and infrastructure development. In addition to Jakarta's rise, the report reveals several recent facts that deepen our understanding of global urbanization: 1. The number of megacities—urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million—has increased fourfold from 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with over half located in Asia, reflecting the continent's rapid economic growth and demographic shifts. 2. The urban population growth rate has accelerated, with some cities experiencing annual increases of over 2%, driven by rural-to-urban migration, economic opportunities, and improved healthcare. 3. Major cities like Lagos, Delhi, and Shanghai are also approaching or surpassing the 20 million mark, indicating a trend of expanding urban centers across Africa, South Asia, and East Asia. 4. The rise of megacities has led to increased pressure on infrastructure, including transportation, housing, water supply, and sanitation, prompting innovative solutions such as smart city technologies and green infrastructure. 5. Climate change impacts are becoming more evident in urban settings, with rising sea levels, heat islands, and extreme weather events posing significant challenges for city resilience and sustainability. 6. The UN report emphasizes that urbanization is a key driver of economic growth, but also highlights disparities in access to services, with marginalized communities often facing higher risks of poverty and health issues. 7. Recent advancements in technology, such as AI-driven urban planning and renewable energy integration, are helping cities like Jakarta manage their growth more sustainably. 8. The global push towards sustainable development goals (SDGs) is influencing city policies, encouraging investments in renewable energy, waste management, and affordable housing. 9. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated remote work and digital connectivity, reshaping urban lifestyles and emphasizing the need for resilient infrastructure. 10. Future projections suggest that by 2030, urban populations will continue to grow, with some cities experiencing population booms of over 50%, necessitating international cooperation and innovative urban solutions. As Jakarta takes center stage as the world's most populous capital, it exemplifies both the opportunities and challenges of rapid urbanization. Policymakers, urban planners, and communities worldwide must collaborate to ensure that these expanding cities become sustainable, resilient, and inclusive spaces for future generations. The ongoing urban transformation offers a unique chance to rethink how we design, manage, and live in our cities, aligning growth with environmental stewardship and social equity.

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