Wrap-Up: Values and Governance for Urban Health

In this chapter we attempt to systematically analyse the case studies provided for the different regions in Part II of the book. We argue that a degree of systematizing of Healthy Cities around the world is warranted. However, the evidence generated in Part II shows that each Healthy City is unique, with a unique context and unique set of governance and operational parameters. This is no surprise, and we continue to explain why any effort at collective analysis must first and foremost take into account the matter of glocal values and political choice. The argument is grounded in political philosophy and efforts to frame political cultures across nations and (social and political) environments. We present the statements to come out of pivotal 2016 meetings (the Habitat 3 Quito statement and the WHO Shanghai health promotion declaration) as sharing the value system that is also espoused by the Sustainable Development Goals and the new Global Public Health Charter. (Healthy) Cities have been working towards these value systems for three decades now, and seem well placed to continue to take a lead in the grand challenges of urban health—as presented in Part III of this book.