Anacláudia Rossbach: WUF13 is a platform for rethinking global action on urbanization VIDEO
Baku, May 18, AZERTAC
“To achieve the sustainable development goals, cities must be inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The core message of this forum is clear: housing must stand at the center of integrated urban solutions, alongside land management, basic services, climate action, community development, and economic opportunities,” said Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), during a press conference held on the second day of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku.
Anacláudia Rossbach stated that the World Urban Forum, established by the UN General Assembly, has become the leading global platform for dialogue and action on sustainable urbanization. According to the Executive Director, WUF13 represents a significant milestone in terms of rethinking global approaches to urbanization.
Anacláudia Rossbach emphasized that hosting the forum in Baku reflects Azerbaijan's role in promoting global dialogue on sustainable urban development and strengthening interregional cooperation.
"WUF13 is the largest forum organized by UN-Habitat to date. The event brings together more than 41,000 participants from 182 countries, including heads of state, ministers, mayors, UN officials, and representatives from business, academia, and civil society," she noted.
The Executive Director stated that UN-Habitat works jointly with governments and partners toward shaping stronger policies, building effective institutions, and implementing solutions that yield tangible results: "However, a serious gap still exists between policy goals and their execution. WUF13 is a platform that ensures the transition from dialogue to practical action. Within the framework of the forum, six high-level dialogues, more than 370 partner events, and a Global Urban Expo featuring over 130 exhibitions are being organized. New initiatives such as the 'Practice Hub,' 'WUF Academy,' and 'Business and Innovation Hub' are being introduced during this year's forum. These platforms serve to disseminate innovative solutions, develop skills, and promote market-ready projects in the field of housing and urban planning."
She added that the forum also contributes to strengthening political dialogue. In particular, the discussions held at the ministerial level will allow for the shaping of the next phase of the New Urban Agenda.
"Cities are already demonstrating leadership. Practical solutions are being implemented in various parts of the world toward upgrading informal settlements, expanding services, and increasing climate resilience. The problem is not a lack of solutions, but rather the speed and scale of their implementation," the Executive Director emphasized.
According to her, empowering cities and communities is essential to achieving global goals. Given the scale and complexity of modern urbanization challenges, partnerships carry special importance.
Anacláudia Rossbach added that WUF13 is a crucial opportunity to transform commitments into concrete action. The forum will conclude with the adoption of the "Baku Call to Action" document: "This document will reflect a shared vision and collective commitments toward the development of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities."
Other news in this section
