Key topics at the World Urban Forum 13 will include urban financing, climate adaptation, and practical policy solutions for rapidly growing cities.
From Shabnam Karimova
Baku will host the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) from May 17 to 22, bringing together policymakers, experts, leaders, and innovators to address pressing global urban challenges.
Themed “Housing for All: Safe and Resilient Cities”, the forum will focus on expanding affordable housing, strengthening climate resilience, mobilising financing, and advancing innovative urban design tailored to local contexts.
More than half the world’s population now lives in cities, and rapid urbanisation is placing increasing pressure on housing, infrastructure, and services.
Informal settlements are expanding, while climate change is intensifying risks through floods, droughts, and heatwaves. These combined challenges continue to strain sustainable development efforts worldwide.
Recognised as the largest UN platform on sustainable urban development, the World Urban Forum brings together governments, city authorities, civil society, youth, investors, and professionals, reflecting the understanding that urban development is closely linked to social equity, climate action, and economic stability.
WUF13 will include a leaders’ summit for the first time, bringing together heads of state and government.
This underscores the growing recognition that housing and urban development are central to national policy and global stability, rather than purely technical issues.
Urban challenges are particularly acute in regions such as Africa, Asia, Latin America, and parts of the Middle East, where rapid growth is compounded by weak infrastructure, limited resources, climate vulnerability, and constrained access to financing.
Cities are therefore under dual pressure to deliver sustainable development while ensuring social equity.
For many developing countries, the forum provides an important platform to share experiences and contribute to global urban policy discussions.
Greater participation from the global south has strengthened WUF’s role as a space for inclusive dialogue and knowledge exchange.
Key topics at WUF13 are expected to include urban financing, climate adaptation, and practical policy solutions for rapidly growing cities.
Hosting WUF13 represents a significant milestone for Azerbaijan and an opportunity to showcase its approach to urban development, balancing historical heritage with modernisation.
Azerbaijan has also strengthened its international role by hosting the UN Climate Change Conference in November 2024, positioning itself as a bridge between developed and developing economies.
At WUF13, discussions will focus on mobilising investment for affordable housing and resilient infrastructure through cooperation between multilateral development banks, sovereign wealth funds, and private investors.
Earlier this year, Azerbaijan declared 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture”, reinforcing its commitment to combining heritage preservation with modern design and green technology.
WUF13 will feature high-level dialogues, technical sessions, exhibitions, and policy-focused discussions, alongside new partnerships and the launch of actionable initiatives.
Beyond logistics, the forum carries strong symbolic significance. Baku’s location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia reflects the interconnected nature of today’s urban challenges.
Ultimately, WUF13 sends a clear message: the future of humanity is closely tied to the future of its cities.
Urban spaces must be inclusive, resilient, and centred on human dignity. This is not only an aspiration but a necessity for sustainable global development.
Azerbaijan’s role as host positions it not only as an organiser but also as an active contributor to shaping a shared global urban future, with discussions expected to translate into practical policies and meaningful partnerships. - FMT
Shabnam Karimova is the first secretary at the Azerbaijan embassy in Malaysia.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
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