UN Executive Director praised Azerbaijan
Modern.az reports that Anaklaudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the UN Human Settlements Programme, stated that the future of cities is not limited to building construction, and the main goal is to create functional systems and sustainable communities.
Modern.az reports that during her speech, she spoke about the importance of the World Urban Forum, emphasizing that the forum has become an important platform bringing together people from various countries around the world.
“The main essence of the World Urban Forum is precisely the gathering of people from different parts of the world, sharing different views, experiences, and opportunities. The World Urban Forum was established approximately 20 years ago based on a resolution of the UN General Assembly. The goal was to bring stakeholders together on one platform to discuss global housing, urbanization, and living problems. Currently, the UN Human Settlements Programme has started implementing a new strategic plan covering the years 2026–2029. Within the framework of the plan, increasing housing opportunities for everyone, ensuring access to land, expanding access to basic services, and transforming informal settlements are among the main priorities,” she said.
Anaklaudia Rossbach emphasized that the experience of the past 50 years has shown that merely building houses is not enough:
“We already understand that we must build functional systems, form communities, and create a new social contract alongside cities. Solving urbanization and housing problems is not a mission that one institution can carry out alone:
“No organization can bring together all knowledge, experiences, and perspectives alone. Therefore, cooperation is a fundamental condition.”
.
Anaklaudia Rossbach also recalled her participation in the Azerbaijan National Urban Forum, particularly appreciating the involvement of communities and stakeholders in the reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories.
She stated that the activities of the coalition of non-governmental organizations, which unites more than 300 organizations, are of particular importance and their participation in the upcoming World Urban Forum is crucial.
“We need your contribution when evaluating the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. Most importantly, it will not be possible to overcome the global housing crisis without your participation,” she emphasized.
