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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 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 trend shaping the 21st century. This shift underscores the profound demographic changes occurring globally, especially in Asia, where over half of the 33 megacities with populations exceeding 10 million are located. The report emphasizes that urban areas now house 45% of the world's 8.2 billion people, a significant increase from just 20% in 1950. By 2050, projections indicate that two-thirds of the global population will reside in cities, fueling economic growth, infrastructure development, and environmental challenges. Recent facts expanding on this trend include: 1. The global urban population has more than doubled since 1950, reflecting unprecedented migration from rural areas. 2. The number of megacities with populations over 10 million has quadrupled from 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with Asia hosting over half of these urban giants. 3. Urbanization is accelerating in Africa and Latin America, with cities like Lagos and São Paulo experiencing rapid growth, contributing to the global megacity count. 4. The UN report highlights that urban infrastructure investments are crucial, with an estimated $97 trillion needed globally by 2050 to support expanding megacities. 5. Climate change impacts are intensifying in megacities, prompting innovative solutions in sustainable urban planning, renewable energy, and resilient infrastructure. 6. The rise of smart city technologies is transforming urban living, with Jakarta investing heavily in digital infrastructure to manage its sprawling population. 7. Migration policies, economic opportunities, and technological advancements are key drivers behind the rapid growth of capital cities like Jakarta, which now faces challenges related to congestion, pollution, and resource management. 8. The demographic shift is also influencing global politics, with megacities becoming centers of economic power, cultural influence, and innovation hubs. 9. As urban populations surge, governments worldwide are adopting new policies to ensure sustainable development, including green building standards and public transportation expansion. 10. The demographic explosion in cities like Jakarta underscores the importance of international cooperation to address urban poverty, housing shortages, and environmental sustainability. This demographic milestone not only reflects the dynamic evolution of urban landscapes but also signals a need for comprehensive planning and global collaboration to ensure sustainable growth, resilient infrastructure, and improved quality of life for billions of city dwellers worldwide.

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