BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 19. Housing is becoming a
key challenge for the future of humanity, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle,
Ambassador of Somalia to Kenya, said during the session "Housing at
the Center of Global Coalitions," held within the framework of the
13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Trend reports.


According to him, cities across the globe are expanding faster
than systems can adapt, leaving millions of families in need not
only of shelter but also of safety and opportunities.


He emphasized that the primary challenges facing modern cities
include rapid urbanization, population displacement, infrastructure
deficits, climate vulnerability, and rising inequality.


"International cooperation remains essential for strengthening
housing delivery systems and sustainable urban development. In
post-crisis recovery countries, housing holds particular
significance as it fosters rebuilding, social mobility, economic
integration, and peacebuilding," he said.


The Ambassador also noted the importance of the Open-Ended
Working Group on Affordable Housing for All, highlighting its role
as a vital platform for sharing experiences and developing
practical solutions within the framework of the New Urban
Agenda.


He added that housing issues should not be viewed as a
standalone sector, but rather as a strategic investment in
stability, prosperity, and human dignity.







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.