Abstract

This article evaluates the nexus of urban governance and security in developing countries, focusing on rapid urbanization, weak municipal institutions, and rising urban crime. It argues that good governance—transparency, accountability, citizen participation—can mitigate insecurity and improve resilience against urban violence and disasters.

Full Text

The body reviews theories of urban governance and their application in South Asian megacities. It highlights governance deficits such as informal settlements, inadequate policing, and unplanned growth. Case studies of Dhaka, Karachi, and Manila illustrate how weak governance exacerbates urban insecurity. The article recommends participatory planning, decentralization, integrated land use, and e-governance innovations to improve urban safety. It concludes that security is not only about policing but also about inclusive, accountable governance that addresses root causes of insecurity.