The world continues to absorb more urban population and cities are home to this new changes of Economic Geography. India has the 2nd largest urban system in the world 310 million live in 5161 cities and towns. In the next 30 years, another 400 million will Migrate to these cities. By 2030, India's urban population is estimated to reach a staggering 590 million. Twice the population of the United States today of which 68 cities will have population of 1 million plus, up from 42 today; Europe has 35 today.These facts tell us that the urbanization of poverty, governance, climate change and better urban services are arguably some of the biggest development challenge facing the world today.

These cities are governs by Local Governments, they need skilled people to manage and deliver those services and demonstrate leadership in community participation processes to meet every ones expectations. Simultaneously Globalisation, specialisation and restructurings increase the mutual dependence of various actors. Local Governments are becoming increasingly dependent on others to help fulfill the expectations the world has on them.

However, it is more important that new knowledge and increased awareness on the need of sustainable development change the conditions in a number of Local Governments, i.e. regarding energy use, garbage disposals, mobility, livelihoods, housing and community enrichment, as well as in working conditions and legislations.

Furthermore, Mayors, city managers, researchers, business managers, community as well as officials are increasing the demands for clearer learning on how cities manage other dimensions of their governance than the ones kept in the traditional accounts.

It is a new world. It’s flat. It is increasing every day. Everyone knows everything about all others all the time. How does that affect individuals, institutions, governance? Is everyone's question!