AIWorldNewz.com

Jakarta Surpasses All as World’s Most Populous Capital in 2025

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

Jakarta, Indonesia, has officially become the world’s most populous capital city, with a staggering 42 million residents, according to the latest United Nations report. This milestone underscores the rapid urbanization trend shaping the 21st century, where cities are becoming the primary hubs of economic, cultural, and political activity. The report highlights that over 45% of the global population now resides in urban areas, a significant increase from just 20% in 1950. The number of megacities—urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million—has surged from 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with more than half located in Asia. This urban growth is driven by factors such as rural-to-urban migration, economic opportunities, and technological advancements. Recent facts further illuminate this trend: 1. By 2030, it is estimated that nearly 70% of the world’s population will live in cities, intensifying pressure on infrastructure and resources. 2. The global urban population growth rate has averaged around 2.5% annually over the past decade. 3. Major Asian megacities like Mumbai, Shanghai, and Beijing each house over 20 million residents, contributing to the continent’s urban dominance. 4. Urbanization is linked to increased economic productivity, with cities accounting for approximately 80% of global GDP. 5. Environmental challenges such as air pollution, water scarcity, and urban heat islands are escalating in these densely populated areas, prompting innovative sustainable solutions. This unprecedented growth presents both opportunities and challenges. While cities like Jakarta are becoming vibrant centers of innovation and culture, they also face issues like overcrowding, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. Governments worldwide are investing in smart city technologies, green infrastructure, and sustainable urban planning to manage this rapid expansion effectively. As urbanization continues at this pace, the global community must prioritize resilient, inclusive, and sustainable development strategies to ensure that megacities remain livable and prosperous for future generations.

More recent coverage