“Although I will not be attending the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, I consider it an extremely important event in the current global context,” Lorena Zenteno Villa, senior researcher at the University of Miami School of Law and a renowned expert in international climate law, told AZERTAC.

According to her, we are living through an accelerating climate crisis combined with a deepening housing crisis, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions. Cities are at the center of both problems and also at the center of potential solutions.

L. Villa said that the WUF convened every two years by UN-Habitat, is the leading global platform for dialogue on sustainable urban development: “It brings together governments, urban planners, civil society, academics, and international organizations to exchange policies, innovations, and best practices. While it is not a decision-making body, it plays a crucial role in shaping global urban agendas.”

“This year’s theme, “Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities,” is especially timely. Climate change is increasing heatwaves, flooding, displacement, and infrastructure stress in cities worldwide, disproportionately affecting those living in inadequate or informal housing. Addressing housing is therefore not only a social issue but also a matter of climate resilience and human security,” she noted.

“For Azerbaijan, hosting WUF13 is significant both domestically and internationally. Domestically, it elevates discussions around sustainable urban planning and long-term resilience. Internationally, it positions the country as an active participant in global conversations on sustainable cities and climate adaptation issues that will define urban development in the decades ahead,” the expert added.