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

Source: Jakarta world’s most populous capital with 42 million people: UN report (2025-11-24)

Jakarta, Indonesia, has officially become the world’s most populous capital city, housing an astonishing 42 million residents, according to the latest United Nations report. This milestone underscores the rapid urbanization trend that is reshaping global demographics and city landscapes. The report highlights that the world’s urban population now accounts for 45% of the total 8.2 billion people, a significant increase from just 20% in 1950. Since then, urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million—known as megacities—have quadrupled from 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025, with over half located in Asia. This urban explosion is driven by factors such as rural-to-urban migration, economic opportunities, and technological advancements. Recent developments further illustrate this trend: by 2030, it is projected that nearly 70% of the global population will live in cities, with Asia continuing to dominate urban growth. The rise of megacities like Jakarta, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Lagos is transforming economic hubs and cultural centers, but also posing challenges such as infrastructure strain, environmental degradation, and social inequality. Notably, Jakarta’s population surge is accompanied by significant infrastructural investments, including new mass transit systems, smart city initiatives, and sustainable urban planning efforts aimed at managing this growth effectively. In addition to Jakarta’s record-breaking population, other key facts include: the global urban population is expected to reach 6.7 billion by 2050; the number of megacities is projected to increase to 43 by 2030; urban areas are increasingly adopting green technologies to combat pollution; and innovative policies are being implemented worldwide to improve urban resilience against climate change. Furthermore, the rise of digital infrastructure is transforming city life, with smart city technologies improving transportation, energy efficiency, and public safety. This demographic shift has profound implications for global economics, politics, and environmental sustainability. Cities are now the engines of innovation, accounting for over 80% of global GDP, yet they also face critical challenges such as housing shortages, traffic congestion, and pollution. Governments and urban planners are increasingly focusing on sustainable development goals, integrating renewable energy sources, green spaces, and resilient infrastructure to support growing populations. The rise of megacities like Jakarta exemplifies both the opportunities and complexities of 21st-century urbanization, emphasizing the need for coordinated global efforts to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth. As urbanization accelerates, the importance of data-driven urban planning and international cooperation becomes more evident. The UN’s latest report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers worldwide to prioritize sustainable urban development, invest in resilient infrastructure, and harness technological innovations. The future of global cities depends on balancing growth with environmental stewardship and social equity, ensuring that megacities like Jakarta can thrive while maintaining quality of life for their residents. With ongoing advancements and strategic planning, the world can navigate the challenges of urbanization and unlock the full potential of its burgeoning cities.

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