Raf Tuts’s research while affiliated with UN Habitat and other places

The interconnection between rural and urban areas is growing. The large-scale urbanization and the implications of this type of development on rural areas calls for a renewed attention in fostering linkages between the urban, peri-urban and rural contexts. The limited land resources creates intense competition for different uses, including urbanization, protection of the environment and the improvements over land. This paper argues for the imperative to foster an effective interaction between urban and rural areas. Using selected case studies and learning interventions in the urban–rural continuum from various organizations, this paper argues that there is a need for strengthening partnerships, research and knowledge development on developing land and spatial planning systems and tools for a balanced urban and rural development. This paper presents the rationale for the renewed interest in the issue of urban–rural linkages. It also highlights the findings of the literature review and various organization positions and interventions on urban–rural linkages. Finally, this paper suggests the possible priority areas for enhancing urban–rural linkages. 农村和城市地区之间的相互联系越来越密切。大规模的城镇化和这种类型的开发对农村的影响正在呼吁重新重视培育城市、郊区和农村大环境之间的联系。有限的土地资源造成了不同用途之间的激烈竞争，包括城市化、环境保护和土地改善。本文认为必须促进城乡之间的有效互动。通过有选择的案例研究，并学习各种组织在城乡连续性中的干预，本文认为有必要加强土地开发和空间规划体系及其工具之间的协作、研究和学科发展，从而获得均衡的城乡发展。本文提出了在城乡联系问题上的新的研究焦点的理论依据。本文同时也强调了文献综述和各种组织对城乡联系的定位和干预的结果。最后，为了加强城乡联系，本文提出了可能的优先区域。

Small and intermediate towns are important to enhancing urban-rural linkages because they are often more accessible to rural populations and also act as a bridge between rural populations and large cities. However small and intermediate towns are struggling to manage urbanization, attract investment and meet the demand for housing, land, infrastructure and basic services. They are often poorly managed, have weak communication systems within and between them, struggle to create and retain jobs, and have high levels of unemployment. These towns also often find it difficult to diversify and strengthen their economies, retain capital and attract investments. The paper first reviews the role of small and intermediate towns and highlights the challenges and opportunities of small and intermediate towns in articulating urban-rural linkages. Secondly, the paper presents findings from interviews with key informants and experts on the key contribution of small and intermediate towns in structuring urban-rural linkages. Thirdly, drawing from the findings from key informants and expert interviews, the paper explores the system of interaction between the small and intermediate towns, their region, and with other towns and cities. It also explores the role of small and intermediate towns in achieving a balanced regional development, alleviating rural poverty and achieving sustainable urbanization. The paper pays particular attention to case studies from both developing and developed countries. Finally, based on the literatures review and interviews with key informants and experts, the paper highlights policy directions to revitalize small and intermediate towns.