It grows out of an unequal and exclusive society, and out of lack of institutional and social control. An inadequate urban environment and exclusion encourage crime and violence. Moreover, the criminal justice system, including police, courts and prisons, is poorly adapted to the rapidly changing urban environment, and is unable to respond to the concerns and needs of urban dwellers, particularly the poor. The criminal justice institutions alone cannot stop the escalation of urban violence or even control it. Public safety should be considered as a public good that must be developed and promoted by all institutions and civil society.
International experience shows that reducing crime is everybody's responsibility.
The key role of local authorities Cities have a primary role in co-ordinating the activities aimed at reducing crime. Local governments are seen as the key actors in coalitions and in the development of community-wide planning strategies for crime prevention. Mayors and city councillors are in strategic positions to initiate and co-ordinate local action and adequately address the social demand. A partnership between local governments and other stakeholders can enable prevention and ultimately eliminate violence, crime and insecurity. Safety as an issue of good governance Tackling crime and insecurity are issues of good urban governance .