Social inclusion, understood as both a process and an outcome, is about improving the terms in which individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, disability status, age, sexual orientation, and religion, take part in society and share prosperity.

Socially inclusive policies and programs aim to empower vulnerable and marginalised groups to take advantage of opportunities and enjoy equal access to education, health services, technologies, employment, as well as to have a voice in decision making processes that will impact their lives.

Inclusion and equality are at the core of sustainable development. Understanding this challenge, the CIFAL Global Network provides training and opportunities for transfer of expertise with the objective of strengthening the capacities of government authorities and policy makers to develop and implement strategies towards social inclusion.

Creating economic opportunities, generating good and decent jobs and ensuring equitable growth are essential to eradicate poverty and remain a top priority in the path to sustainable development. A second priority is to constantly raise productivity so that growth generates more growth. This certainly requires skills development, policies that support micro, small and medium size enterprises, enhanced capacities to innovate, and a stable environment that enables businesses to prosper. CIFAL Centers facilitate the exchange of innovative solutions that promote economically productive cities that are socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

Urban governance refers to how government (local, regional and national) and stakeholders decide how to plan, finance and manage urban areas. It involves a continuous process of negotiation and contestation over the allocation of social and material resources and political power. CIFAL Newcastle focuses on the disaster resilience and risk reduction involved in Urban Governance & Planning in order to build resilient cities and communities.