WUF13 Panel Session: From goals to homes
Baku, May 22, AZERTAC
On May 22, a panel session titled " From Goals to Homes" was held in Baku within the framework of the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13). The event was organized by the International Union of Architects (UIA).
The panel was moderated by Rui Leão, President of the International Council of Architects of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CIALP). The discussions focused on global urbanization trends, urban planning, and the provision of affordable housing for all.
Speaking at the session, Jose Chong, Programme Management Officer, at the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat); Elisabet Cirici Amiell, Director General of Urban Planning and Architecture at the Department of Territory, Housing, and Ecological Transition of the Government of Catalonia, Spain; and Vity Nsalambi, President of the Order of Architects of Angola, addressed the current status of implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at both local and global levels.
The speakers detailed the SDG alignment strategies of their respective organizations and shared experiences on how these targets are becoming an integral part of urbanization processes, modern urban culture, and architectural concepts. They emphasized that access to housing is a fundamental human right, and overcoming shortages in this area remains one of the most critical challenges facing the modern world.
The presentations noted that the primary challenge regarding the SDGs lies in properly understanding their core essence, as well as their effective practical application by various stakeholders through urban planning tools and other fields. It was highlighted that the work architects can do—within both public policy frameworks and private practice—is of exceptional importance for realizing sustainable development goals.
During the session, the upcoming World Congress of Architects, organized by the UIA and scheduled to take place in Barcelona next month, was also highlighted. It was noted that this upcoming congress will serve as a vital platform for extensive discussions on the architectural action plan to address the global housing crisis and shape sustainable urban environments.
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