“Innovative solutions are crucial for the cities of the future,” said Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), at a press conference held as part of WUF13.
Anacláudia Rossbach noted that the world today faces a housing crisis, climate-related challenges, natural disasters, and reconstruction issues stemming from conflicts. She added that the global urbanization rate is expected to rise from 50 percent to 70 percent over the next two decades. According to Rossbach, cities are already under considerable pressure, while many people still lack access to essential services and opportunities.
She stressed that cities face floods, fires, security threats, and other challenges, highlighting the need for innovative approaches and closer cooperation among experts in research, dialogue, and policymaking.
