BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 18. Fundamental human
rights must be considered as the main priority when making
decisions related to urbanization, Diana Angela Wambui Wachira, a
representative from Kenya of the "Habitat International Coalition"
told Trend on the
sidelines of WUF13 in Baku.
"The organization I operate in is an international coalition
body working towards the promotion, protection, and recognition of
the right to housing within the framework of human rights. Our
organization functions particularly in the direction of building
resilient cities, ensuring social justice, inclusive urban planning
policy, and creating a safe living environment for everyone," she
said.
She stated that her primary expectation from the World Urban
Forum is for the human rights approach to be at the center of all
discussions.
"When decisions regarding urban development, urbanization,
climate change, and housing policy are made, people's fundamental
rights must be considered as the main priority. Particularly,
ensuring the right to adequate housing and people's access to a
safe living environment for everyone is vital. The issue of housing
is not just a matter of construction and infrastructure; it is also
connected to human dignity, social well-being, and equal
opportunities," she said.
Wachira emphasized that the exchange of experience among
delegates from various countries, the discussion of mutual
cooperation opportunities, and working on new strategies within the
framework of the forum are highly significant.
"I hope that the approaches and strategies discussed here will
be continued after the event, presented to other international
platforms and partner organizations. Most importantly, it will be
their practical implementation and bringing real results. I think
that international forums like this play an important role in
shaping common solutions for urban planning, human rights, and
sustainable development issues," she added.
