BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 14. The housing crisis
is directly linked to climate risks and urban resilience, requiring
a comprehensive global approach for its solution, Maria Fernanda
Espinosa, President of the 73rd Session of the UN General Assembly
(UNGA), told Trend
on the sidelines of the 13th Global Baku Forum on "Bridging Divides
in a World in Transition".
According to her, billions of people worldwide live in dangerous
housing conditions, which increases their vulnerability to climate
shocks.
"The world cannot function peacefully when 300 million people
are homeless, 1.1 billion live in slums, and approximately three
billion people live in unsafe conditions without access to basic
services," Espinosa noted.
She emphasized that the housing problem requires long-term
planning, investment, and well-thought-out public policy.
"Housing is not only a human rights issue, but is also an issue
closely linked to the climate crisis. It's impossible to create
resilient cities prepared for climate shocks if there is a housing
crisis," said Espinosa.
According to her, resilient cities require not only housing but
also access to safe water, healthcare, education, and basic
infrastructure.
Espinosa pointed out that Azerbaijan's hosting of the COP29
climate conference, as well as the upcoming World Urban Forum
reflect the interconnection between the climate agenda and
sustainable urban development.
"It's crucial to integrate climate action with housing
solutions, as without a comprehensive approach, it's impossible to
effectively combat poverty, inequality, and the impacts of climate
change," she added.
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