Housing is not just a commodity, it is a human right.
Modern.az reports that this was stated by Anaklaudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), at the closing ceremony of the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku.
She stated that within the framework of the forum, states, local and regional authorities, civil society organizations, private sector representatives and communities came together and put forward a common position that housing is the foundation of human dignity, inclusivity, opportunities and climate resilience.
“Housing is one of the most important tools for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including building inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities.”
A. Rossbach also emphasized that at a time when the mid-term implementation of the New Urban Agenda has been reached, the message from Baku is clear: the coming decade should be characterized by accelerated implementation, large-scale results and measurable changes in people's lives.
According to the head of UN-Habitat, the six dialogues, 10 special sessions, more than 355 side events and an extensive exhibition held within the framework of the forum once again demonstrated the importance of urban development based on a human-centered approach.
She noted that for this, it is important to re-accept housing policy as a public responsibility, empower cities and communities, stop forced displacements and protect vulnerable groups.
“At the same time, housing financing mechanisms must be transformed, information systems strengthened, and decisions must be based on reliable, community-based data. Finally, implementation mechanisms based on clear goals, measurable accountability and joint action with communities must be established,” the UN official added.
