BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 19. Human factor should
be considered in urbanization, Regional Coordinator for Europe and
Central Asia of the UN Volunteers Program, Zarina Mirabdullayeva,
told reporters on the sidelines of WUF13 in Baku, Trend reports.


She stated that volunteers are one of the key components of the
innovation, modernization, and digitalization processes of urban
communities.


According to her, such serious forums are of great importance in
terms of global discussions on urbanization and digitalization.


"When we talk about urbanization and the digitalization of the
places we live, we should never forget the human factor. I'm here
to talk about volunteerism. Volunteers are among the people who
create the strongest bond between people and the places they live.
They are the first to welcome people at various events and
organizations. It is a great honor for me to see so many people
together in Baku and to be a participant in such a wonderful event.
The forum creates a real festive atmosphere," she noted.


The third day of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum
(WUF13) is underway in Baku.







On the first day, a ministerial meeting dedicated to the New
Urban Agenda, a roundtable of ministers, assemblies of women and
civil society, business sessions, and discussions on urban
well-being were held. A ceremony for raising the flags of the
United Nations and Azerbaijan also took place within the framework
of the forum.


The second day of the forum drew attention with the first-ever
Leaders Summit. High-level discussions on the global housing
crisis, urbanization policy, and urban resilience were held that
day. At the same time, the Mexico City pavilion was inaugurated
within the framework of WUF13. The pavilion was presented as an
important platform for expanding cooperation with the Latin
American region and preparing for WUF14.


WUF13, which has attracted more than 40,000 registered
participants from 182 countries, will continue until May 22. Held
under the theme “Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and
communities,” the forum brings together governments, international
organizations, experts, and representatives of civil society to
strengthen global cooperation in the field of sustainable urban
development.