This paper presents a profile of the work of the Urban Governance Initiative, which seeks to promote and support good urban governance in Asia and the Pacific. It describes the principles underlying its work; the pilot projects it supported in Suva, Kathmandu, Penang and Shenyang; its award schemes for urban innovation, the use of new technologies and for young leaders; and its publications and outreach to local authorities and journalists. It also describes the citizen Report Cards system it has supported, and its special interest in mobilizing local governance action for preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and for supporting those who are infected. Published by UNDP in April 2003