On the first day of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), to be held in Baku on May 17–22, a ministerial meeting on the New Urban Agenda will be organized as a new initiative within WUF13, WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company told APA.
The meeting, which coincides with the midpoint of the 20-year implementation period of the New Urban Agenda, provides an opportunity to assess the progress achieved, identify existing challenges, and shape the next phase of implementation.
At the meeting to be held on May 17 under Azerbaijan’s chairmanship, government representatives will come together to review the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and discuss priorities for the next phase leading up to 2036.
In line with the WUF13 theme “Housing for All: Safe and Resilient Cities and Human Settlements,” special attention will be paid during these discussions to housing as a key driver of inclusivity, sustainability, and resilient urban development.
The ministerial meeting will provide countries with a platform to exchange experiences, identify existing gaps, and strengthen commitments under the New Urban Agenda. At the same time, the meeting will contribute to boosting political momentum ahead of the high-level review to be held at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2026.
Participants will discuss the key driving role of housing in three main areas — social inclusion and poverty reduction, economic prosperity and opportunities, as well as environmental sustainability and climate resilience — and will review the results achieved, national approaches, and priorities for the next phase.
The event will begin with a high-level dialogue organized with the participation of the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), and UN representatives. This will be followed by statements from ministers reflecting the national achievements and priority directions of member states.
Three thematic panels will be held in the second half of the day. The meeting will conclude with the adoption of the Chair’s Summary document.
It was noted that, in addition to reflecting key recommendations, this document will contribute to global reporting processes as well as the final documents of WUF13, including the Baku Call to Action document.
