‘No society is immune’ to housing crisis, UN chief warns at World Urban Forum in Baku
No Society is Immune to Housing Crisis: UN Chief Warns at Baku’s World Urban Forum
No society is immune to housing – At the World Urban Forum held in Baku, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning: no society is immune to housing crises. The global challenge, which affects billions, has grown more pressing amid economic and geopolitical shifts. In a video address, Guterres emphasized that the crisis transcends income levels, striking both developing and developed nations. He stressed that housing affordability and accessibility are now central to ensuring social stability and economic progress, stating that “no society remains untouched by the escalating housing crisis, whether in bustling cities or rural regions.” The forum’s attendees were urged to prioritize housing as a foundation for sustainable development, recognizing its role in shaping livelihoods and communities.
Azerbaijan’s Urban Vision Takes Center Stage
Baku’s hosting of the World Urban Forum marked a significant moment for Azerbaijan, showcasing its commitment to modernizing urban landscapes. President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the transformation of the city’s former industrial areas into the revitalized White City district, a testament to innovative planning. “Baku was the first city to produce oil, dating back to 1846,” he said, framing the city’s evolution as a blend of historical legacy and forward-thinking infrastructure. The creation of over 100 parks and public squares was also noted, underscoring the nation’s dedication to sustainable urban living. These developments position Baku as a model for other cities navigating the complexities of rapid growth.
The Housing Crisis: A Global Threat
Guterres’ remarks echoed a recurring theme: the housing crisis is no longer a distant concern but an urgent reality. He cited that nearly 3 billion people globally face housing insecurity, with rising rents and homelessness intensifying the problem. The UN chief argued that this crisis is deeply interconnected with broader issues like climate change, migration, and economic inequality. “Housing is more than a physical structure; it is the bedrock of human dignity and opportunity,” he emphasized. This perspective aligns with the forum’s goal of fostering inclusive cities where no one is left behind.
“Baku was the first city to produce oil, dating back to 1846. Today, we have White City, the model of urban development—a city within the city.”
“In the last 20 years, we created over 100 parks and squares in Baku, reflecting our commitment to public spaces and climate resilience.”
Collaborative Efforts to Address Urban Challenges
The 13th edition of the World Urban Forum attracted record participation, with over 40,000 attendees from 182 countries. This gathering underscored the importance of collective action in tackling housing and urban development issues. Anar Guliyev, Azerbaijan’s WUF13 coordinator, noted that the forum’s first-of-its-kind session at the heads-of-state level highlighted the nation’s role in shaping global urban policy. “Cities are now at the heart of global challenges, including housing affordability and climate adaptation,” Guliyev stated. The event reinforced the need for integrated strategies that address both immediate needs and long-term resilience.
Housing as a Pillar of Sustainable Development
Annalena Baerbock, president of the United Nations General Assembly, expanded on the theme, asserting that housing is a cornerstone of sustainable development. She outlined how inadequate housing exacerbates inequality, disrupts education, and weakens public health systems. “The housing crisis is not just about shelter—it is about securing a future for our children,” she said. With over 1.1 billion people living in informal settlements and 300 million homeless worldwide, the urgency for action is clear. Baerbock called for a holistic approach, linking housing policies to infrastructure, climate resilience, and financial inclusion to create equitable urban environments.
Global Solutions for a Shared Challenge
The forum’s Urban Expo highlighted diverse solutions from 66 countries, offering insights into addressing the housing crisis through innovative projects. From green building technologies to affordable housing models, the expo emphasized the importance of local and international collaboration. As the event concluded, delegates reaffirmed their commitment to the New Urban Agenda, a framework aimed at making cities inclusive, sustainable, and resilient. Guterres’ closing remarks reiterated the message: no society is immune to housing challenges, and without immediate action, the crisis will continue to shape the world’s urban future.
