With the overall goal of bringing an end to poverty in all its forms and dimensions, by ensuring equal rights and opportunities, socioeconomic and cultural diversity, and integration in the urban space.

Urban legislation and institutional framework are cross-cutting policy themes that interconnect with all other themes. Solutions under this pillar are formed through a critical assessment of urban legislation and include recommendations for updating, cancelling and introducing new laws to govern the urban sector.

Socio-economic development required the improvement of and greater access to health, education, employment, land/housing and the local economy. Current conditions include congestion on primary and secondary roads, inadequate availability of water and electricity networks, inadequate public infrastructure including roads and parks

With regard to municipal finance, there is no sustainable framework to financially support local governments. Collectively, resources do not cover the recurring costs of administration, or waste management activities. The establishment of a fiscal structure in local governance and the creation of additional revenue streams

Decentralization is the most cross-cutting of the six themes impacting the efficacy of all other policy interventions. While decentralization clauses are limited, the PAPD lists holding elections for selected municipalities as a component of its Sustainable Cities