World Habitat Day 2024: Addressing Challenges in Urbanization, Housing, and Youth Leadership

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8 October 2024, Querétaro.World Habitat Day 2024 closed with a rallying call from the UN-Habitat Executive Director, urging attendees to transform the day’s discussions into meaningful action. The event, hosted in Querétaro, Mexico, highlighted critical challenges in urbanization, housing, and youth leadership, placing a spotlight on the urgent need for solutions that address the rapid pace of urban growth and its impact on vulnerable populations, particularly youth.

Over 1,300 participants attended in Querétaro, with representation from 288 cities across 88 countries. The Executive Director praised the global participation and the dynamic exchange of ideas, stating, “We are all ready to turn our DeclarACTION into real action,” in reference to the newly launched initiative aimed at fast-tracking sustainable development solutions.

This year's World Habitat Day attracted representation from 288 cities across 88 countries, 7 October 2024. (c) UN-Habitat
This year's World Habitat Day attracted representation from 288 cities across 88 countries, 7 October 2024. (c) UN-Habitat

The Urbanization Challenge: Housing at the Forefront

Urbanization remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time. As cities continue to grow, so do the challenges of inequality, housing shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. The Executive Director acknowledged these difficulties, noting, “Despite our efforts, urban inequality continues to rise, and we are not on track to meet the SDGs or basic rights. Having a home where one feels safe remains out of reach for many.” The stark reality of urban housing conditions, especially in informal settlements, remains a barrier to achieving a sustainable and inclusive future for all.

The housing crisis is particularly acute for young people. As urban populations swell, youth are disproportionately affected by inadequate housing, overcrowding, and lack of access to basic services. The Executive Director emphasized the need to prioritize youth in urban planning, stating, “By 2030, more than 60% of urban residents will be under the age of 18. But let’s make it clear: young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow. They are also the leaders of today.” Housing solutions must not only address the immediate needs but also ensure long-term stability and opportunities for the next generation of urban dwellers.

Young people participating in an activity at World Habitat Day in Querétaro, Mexcio, 7 October 2024. (c) UN-Habitat
Young people participating in an activity at World Habitat Day in Querétaro, Mexcio, 7 October 2024. (c) UN-Habitat

Youth Leadership: Driving Solutions for Housing and Urbanization

Youth leadership was a key focus of this year’s event, with two roundtables dedicated to the role of young people in addressing climate change and urban mobility. The Executive Director highlighted the importance of youth engagement in these critical areas, particularly as they relate to housing and the broader urbanization challenge. Young people, she noted, are at the forefront of advocating for more affordable, inclusive housing solutions that can mitigate the inequalities prevalent in cities today.

The adoption of the DeclarACTION on youth and sustainable urbanization during World Habitat Day symbolizes a shared commitment to empowering young people in addressing housing and urbanization challenges. “Young people are our hope to accelerate and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030,” the Executive Director stated, stressing that youth-driven solutions must play a central role in creating sustainable urban futures.

Community park Alameda Hidalgo in Querétaro, next to Educational Cultural Center of the State of Querétaro, where the World Habitat Day celebrations took place, 2024. (c) UN-Habitat
Community park Alameda Hidalgo in Querétaro, next to Educational Cultural Center of the State of Querétaro, where the World Habitat Day celebrations took place, 2024. (c) UN-Habitat

Querétaro’s Legacy: A Model for Urban Solutions

Querétaro’s role as host of World Habitat Day 2024 further underscored the importance of addressing urbanization and housing challenges in rapidly growing cities. The Executive Director commended the state and municipality for their leadership, expressing her belief that “this celebration will leave a legacy in Querétaro.” As cities like Querétaro confront the challenges of urban expansion, their experiences and innovations offer valuable lessons for other cities around the world.

The Executive Director concluded by urging attendees to continue the momentum beyond the day’s events, reminding them that the work to tackle housing challenges and rapid urbanization must persist. “This day has set the stage for continued engagement,” she noted, encouraging ongoing collaboration as the global community prepares for the upcoming World Urban Forum in Cairo.

With a focus on tackling the intertwined challenges of urbanization, housing, and youth inclusion, World Habitat Day 2024 laid the groundwork for a future where cities are more sustainable, resilient, and equitable for all.

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