Distinguished delegates, esteemed colleagues, dear friends, and, most importantly, the bright young leaders gathered here today,
It is both a privilege and a poignant moment for me to stand before you as we close this Children and Youth Assembly at the World Urban Forum. As I look back on my time as Executive Director of UN-HABITAT, I am reminded not only of the progress we have made but also of the lasting legacy that young people continue to build in shaping a better urban future. Reflecting on this journey, I am profoundly moved by the collective vision, strength, and resilience of youth, whose contributions have proven essential in the pursuit of sustainable urban development.
During my leadership tenure from 2000 to 2010, we saw a transformative decade of urban growth. This period marked a pivotal shift as cities became central to global development dialogues. However, with rapid urbanization came complex challenges: rising inequality, inadequate infrastructure, and a growing informal sector. These realities were particularly pronounced in developing regions, where millions lived in informal settlements, facing uncertain livelihoods. It became clear that the urban agenda had to adapt to be inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the voices of those most affected, particularly our youth. With their energy, creativity, and commitment, young people represented both the heartbeat and the future of our urban spaces.
Recognizing this, we sought to integrate youth into the fabric of UN-HABITAT’s work. In 2009, I was proud to launch the Opportunities Fund for Urban Youth-Led Development, a groundbreaking initiative that provided $2 million in funding for youth-led projects focused on enhancing the quality of life in urban areas. These funds empowered young leaders to innovate, build capacity, and implement localized solutions that addressed their communities’ most pressing challenges. This was more than a financial commitment; it was an investment in the transformative potential of youth-led development and a testament to our unwavering belief in young people’s agency.
In parallel, we also established the Global Partnership Initiative for Urban Youth in Africa. This initiative brought together young people, local authorities, and civil society to collaboratively address urban challenges across the African continent. Through this partnership, we witnessed the power of youth in co-creating solutions that directly impacted their lives and their communities. This initiative embodied the spirit of unity and collaboration, showing that when young voices are amplified, meaningful change follows.
Beyond these initiatives, we consistently emphasized youth involvement in policy dialogues, research, and capacity-building programs. One of the highlights of this engagement was the creation of platforms where young people could share their experiences, raise awareness of urban issues, and influence decision-making processes. In forums like these, youth were not just participants; they were stakeholders, leaders, and changemakers who contributed to shaping urban policies that resonated with their realities and aspirations.
As I stand here today, I am filled with pride and gratitude for each young leader who has taken up the mantle to envision and build a brighter urban future. Your involvement in UN-HABITAT’s work has demonstrated that youth are not simply beneficiaries but essential partners and active agents of urban transformation. Your voices have given life to innovative solutions, from sustainable livelihoods to environmental stewardship, and your actions have proven that youth-led initiatives are indispensable for sustainable urban development.
The journey does not end here. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to provide young people with platforms to express their ideas, lead initiatives, and take part in governance processes that affect their lives. Our progress over the last decade is a powerful reminder of the impact that young people can have when they are empowered and supported. Let us commit to building on this momentum, ensuring that youth remain at the heart of our shared mission for sustainable and inclusive cities.
In closing, allow me to express my heartfelt thanks to all who have made this journey possible. To the youth leaders, your courage, vision, and resilience inspire us all. To my colleagues and partners, thank you for recognizing the importance of investing in our young people. Together, we have laid a foundation for a more equitable, vibrant, and sustainable urban future.
