Jakarta overtakes Tokyo as the world’s most populous city
Jakarta and Tokyo show how fast-growing cities must invest in culture to remain liveable, attractive and resilient
Jakarta is home to 42 million people, according to a new estimate by the population division.
Culture After Dark: Three Ways Cities Are Supercharging the Night-Time Economy
Cities from Guangzhou to Toronto are increasingly placing culture at the heart of their night-time economies. Our 5th Edition World Cities Culture Report shows that what was once an.
5th World Cities Culture Report Reveals Culture Is Driving Urban Innovation Worldwide
New report shows cultural participation is rebounding strongly, creative spaces are being protected, and the night-time economy has become a mainstream policy focus for global cities.
Online Launch: 5th Edition World Cities Culture Report
29 Jan 2026 — 29 Jan 2026
Watch the recording of the online launch where we ask - Is culture in cities responding to today’s challenges? At the World Cities Culture Forum, we believe culture is.
Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
Foreword from Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London and patron of World Cities Culture Forum, to the World Cities Culture Report: 5th Edition
Ernesto Ottone, Assistant Director General for Culture, UNESCO
Foreword from Ernesto Ottone, Assistant Director General for Culture at UNESCO, to the World Cities Culture Report: 5th Edition
Justine Simons OBE, Founder of World Cities Culture Forum
Foreword from Justine Simons OBE, founder of World Cities Culture Forum, introducing the report and framing its importance.
Introduction and Key Findings
Culture is emerging as the defining force of resilient cities, driving identity, wellbeing, and economic vitality in the face of global instability, from climate change to technological disruption. Data.
Overview of Key Data
Key data headlines from the 5th edition of the World Cities Culture Report, covering cultural infrastructure, events and participation in culture across cities.
The Power of Cultural Data
Good data in cultural policy goes far beyond counting museums or visitors - it helps cities understand what communities value, set informed goals, and use resources effectively. From citizen.