Baku: The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) opened in Baku with a strong call for more inclusive, resilient, and people-centred approaches to urban development, as global housing shortages and climate pressures intensify. Convened by UN-Habitat, the forum has brought together governments, civil society organisations, local authorities, businesses, women’s groups, and youth advocates to address a wide range of urban challenges.
According to South African Government News Agency, key issues under discussion include housing rights, gender equality, climate resilience, governance, and private-sector innovation. Outcomes from the discussions are expected to shape the ‘Baku Call to Action,’ the outcome document of WUF13, and contribute to advancing the New Urban Agenda. In her opening remarks, UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacl¡udia Rossbach urged participants to ensure the outcome document reflects diverse voices and priorities emerging from the forum.
The World Assembly of Local and Regional Governments gathered mayors, governors, and regional leaders, reaffirming the central role of local authorities in advancing sustainable urban development. Participants emphasised that local governments remain central to implementing the New Urban Agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) beyond 2030. Discussions explored multilevel governance, innovative financing, local public services, and community-led approaches to housing and resilience.
At the Business Assembly, participants explored how innovation and collaboration across the housing value chain can help accelerate the delivery of adequate, affordable, and climate-resilient housing. Stakeholders identified regulatory barriers, infrastructure gaps, financing constraints, and operational risks that continue to slow housing delivery in many parts of the world. Discussions also highlighted emerging solutions, including AI-enabled planning, modular construction, and low-carbon materials.
The Women’s Assembly underscored the need to place gender equality and housing justice at the centre of global urban policy. Discussions explored how housing systems can become more equitable and responsive to the needs of women and girls, particularly in relation to safety, mobility, economic opportunity, and participation in shaping urban environments. Kaori Ishikawa of UN Women highlighted the discrimination women continue to face in housing security, income, and access to opportunities.
The Children and Youth Assembly stressed the urgency of involving young people directly in shaping urban futures. With nearly 70% of the world’s children and youth expected to live in urban areas by 2050, discussions focused on the realities many young people already face, including inadequate housing, unsafe living conditions, and limited opportunities. Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Farhad Hajiyev, stressed the importance of grassroots initiatives as long-term drivers of transformation.
Across all sessions, a common message emerged: ‘Addressing the global housing crisis requires coordinated, multi-stakeholder action centred on equity, resilience, and human dignity’. From grassroots movements and youth leadership to local governments, women’s organisations, and private-sector innovation, participants highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in shaping safe, sustainable, and inclusive cities for all.