World Cities Day Opening Speech
Anacláudia Rossbach, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, delivered on the 31st of October 2024 in Alexandria, Egypt
Good morning, everyone.
First, I would like to recognize the origins of World Cities Day. I am delighted that this event coincides with my recent return from a mission to China, where I had the privilege of witnessing the journey that led to this day, approved by the United Nations General Assembly. This day represents a beautiful narrative—a platform for cities to actively engage and work towards sustainable and equitable transformation.
We are gathered today in the magnificent city of Alexandria. My gratitude goes to the library for hosting us and to the governor of Alexandria for this exceptional opportunity. This city exemplifies the intersection of past and future, aligning with the aspirations of the New Urban Agenda and the global sustainable development goals. It stands as a symbol of resilience and commitment to addressing challenges such as climate change.
Today, as we celebrate World Cities Day, we also reflect on the achievements of Urban October—a month-long focus on urbanization and its impacts. This journey began across the ocean with the celebration of World Habitat Day in Querétaro, Mexico, and continued with the Cairo Urban Weeks, which brought together critical stakeholders to discuss urban challenges and opportunities. These events will culminate in the World Urban Forum, soon to take place in Cairo, Egypt.
We have registered an extraordinary 26,000 participants for this global event—a testament to the relevance of the themes we address today: youth and climate change.
Why Youth?
Youth represents energy, innovation, and the promise of transformation. Across the world, young people—especially those in vulnerable urban areas—are driving change, often against incredible odds. Their courage and leadership inspire us. In just six years, urban areas will see 60% of their population comprised of young people. To build the cities of tomorrow, we must learn to view urban challenges and opportunities through their eyes.
It is essential to integrate their vision with our experience, adapt our policies, and shape urban plans that reflect their culture, habits, and aspirations. In doing so, we prepare a future that resonates with their needs and empowers them to thrive.
Why Climate Change?
Cities play a pivotal role in the fight against climate change. Urban areas, buildings, and construction account for over 35% of global energy use and nearly 40% of CO2 emissions. This presents a dual challenge and opportunity. By adopting sustainable building technologies, efficient land use policies, and maximizing the potential of already developed spaces, cities can lead the way in climate adaptation and mitigation.
I was particularly impressed by the governor’s presentation, which showcased a transformative vision of Alexandria—a combination of social focus on informal settlements and macro projects that inspire a sustainable future.
UN-Habitat’s Commitment
Finally, I reaffirm UN-Habitat’s commitment to supporting the World Cities Day platform. This commitment is grounded in synergy with our global programs, initiatives, and historic partnerships with local and regional governments. It aligns seamlessly with the Pact for the Future, recently approved by consensus at the Summit of the Future in New York.
The Pact places youth at its center, urging countries and cities to prepare for future generations. UN-Habitat is dedicated to promoting knowledge exchange, fostering collaboration, and achieving the goals of the Agenda 2030 and the New Urban Agenda. These commitments sustain our core mandate and ensure a brighter future for urban communities worldwide.
To conclude, I wish you fruitful discussions and a meaningful celebration of this important day. Congratulations to the award winners—your achievements inspire us all.
Thank you very much.
