The format of the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) will significantly differ from previous sessions, according to Anaclaudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). Speaking in Baku, Rossbach emphasized the unique nature and scale of the upcoming global event to be hosted in the Azerbaijani capital.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that Rossbach made these remarks during her speech titled "Advancing Housing through Multilateralism: From Global Commitments to Local Impact," held as part of the preparations for WUF13. "For the first time, the forum has brought together country leaders and heads of government on such a scale. We have gathered ministers, experts, and thinkers in numbers never seen before," she stated. Rossbach also expressed her admiration for the technical depth of the opening addresses, noting that state leaders, including the President, discussed urban planning challenges and solutions with the precision of industry specialists.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is the premier global conference on sustainable urbanization, addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and its impact on communities, economies, and climate change. By hosting WUF13, Azerbaijan reinforces its growing status as a major international hub for diplomatic and developmental dialogue. The event in Baku is expected to focus on the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and fostering inclusive, resilient cities in the post-pandemic era, aligning with Azerbaijan's national priorities for sustainable urban development and reconstruction.
