Institute for Urban Safety Governance

The Institute of Urban Safety Governance (IUSG) is a regional hub for learning, research, and policy innovation focused on making cities in Asia safer, more inclusive, and better prepared for the risks of the 21st century. As part of the Asian School of Governance, we work with local governments, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector leaders to strengthen systems of urban safety—across disaster resilience, public health, transport, housing, and community protection.  

Our Vision

A future where every city in Asia can ensure the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all residents—especially the most vulnerable—in the face of climate change, rapid urbanization, and social inequality.

Our Approach

We view urban safety not simply as the absence of risk, but as the presence of systems that promote trust, equity, preparedness, and resilience. We focus on:

• Risk-Informed Urban Governance
  Helping cities embed risk analysis and evidence-based decision-making into planning, budgeting, and service delivery.

• Inclusive and Adaptive Institutions
  Supporting the design and reform of institutions that protect the rights, health, and security of all urban residents.

• Community-Centered Innovation
  Fostering partnerships between local governments and grassroots organizations to co-produce safety solutions.

• Leadership and Capacity Development
  Equipping mayors, city managers, and frontline responders with the tools and mindsets to lead amidst complexity and uncertainty.
  
  

Programs and Initiatives

• Urban Safety Labs
  Action-learning partnerships with selected cities to co-design scalable, context-specific safety innovations.

• Local Government Fellowships
  A leadership program for urban managers and public safety officials focused on collaborative problem-solving in high-risk environments.

• Research and Policy Studio
  A transdisciplinary platform producing policy briefs, case studies, and practice guides on emerging urban safety challenges.

• Urban Safety Governance Index
  A benchmarking tool to help cities assess and improve their performance across key dimensions of urban safety.
  
  

Key Themes We Work On

• Climate-related disasters and risk reduction

• Gender-based violence and community safety

• Public health emergencies and epidemic preparedness

• Transport and pedestrian safety

• Safe housing and informal settlements

• Urban conflict and social cohesion

Partner With Us

We are building a regional coalition of cities, universities, civil society leaders, and donors committed to advancing urban safety governance. Whether you're a policymaker, researcher, or community advocate—we invite you to collaborate with us in shaping safer futures for Asia’s urban spaces.