A new urban era: WUF12 sparks global momentum for sustainable cities

From the bustling streets of Cairo to the farthest corners of the world, over 24,000 changemakers united with a shared vision: to redefine the future of our cities.

The twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), held from November 3-8, 2024, was not just an event—it was a movement. Hosted by UN-Habitat, the Forum marked a pivotal moment in the global quest for sustainable, inclusive, and equitable urban spaces.

Under the theme “It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities,” WUF12 brought together leaders, visionaries, and advocates to confront urban challenges head-on and craft innovative solutions that resonate across generations.

A Global Stage for Collective Action

In an age of virtual connections, the overwhelming in-person attendance 92% of 24,000 participants from 182 countries underscored humanity’s determination to collaborate, innovate, and inspire. This year, Africa led the charge with 69% of attendees, followed by Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania.

Among the distinguished participants were heads of state, ministers, deputy ministers, and mayors from climate-vulnerable cities, showcasing a rare but vital synergy between policymakers, grassroots leaders, and urban planners.

💡 A platform for all voices: Gender parity shone through the 407 speakers, with nearly equal representation of men and women.

Key Highlights Driving the Dialogue

1. Financing the Future:
   The buzz around WUF12 was palpable in sessions dedicated to funding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. Leaders tackled pressing questions: How can cities access predictable funding? How do we empower local governments to implement transformative projects?
   🌍 Takeaway: Partnerships between public and private sectors, alongside innovative financial frameworks, will be critical to sustainable urban growth.
2. Resilient Urban Design:
   With climate change testing the limits of urban resilience, the Forum spotlighted cities pioneering adaptive strategies. From flood-resilient infrastructure to green roofs combating urban heat, participants shared ideas that blend economic vitality with environmental stewardship.
3. Affordable Housing:
   Rising living costs and housing shortages took center stage. Leaders explored public-private collaborations, innovative financing, and inclusive policies to ensure access to dignified living conditions for all.
   🏘️ Challenge: How do we make housing equitable while fostering urban growth?
4. Smart Cities Redefined:
   Technology emerged as a key player in the sustainable cities of tomorrow. From data-driven urban planning to IoT-powered waste management systems, WUF12 showcased how digital innovation can align with ecological priorities.
5. Youth at the Helm:
   The Children and Youth Assembly proved that young voices aren’t just the future—they’re the now. Addressing climate action, urban equity, and employment, youth leaders bridged generational divides, amplifying their role as catalysts for change.

A Call to Action for Cities Everywhere

At its close, the Forum unveiled the Cairo Call to Action, a roadmap to translate ideas into transformative urban initiatives. This living document reflects the collective wisdom of WUF12 and provides a blueprint for cities to navigate the complexities of rapid urbanization, climate challenges, and social equity.

Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, emphasized the global resonance of the Call to Action:
“We’re taking the insights and recommendations from WUF12 to COP29 in Baku, ensuring alignment with the Paris Agreement and the SDGs. The WUF is now the world’s largest global urban coalition.”

A Legacy of Urban Transformation

Since its inception in 2001, the World Urban Forum has evolved into the leading global platform for sustainable urbanization. This year’s session in Cairo solidified its legacy, fostering partnerships and galvanizing action to tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time.

The journey from WUF12 doesn’t end here it begins.

🌟 What’s Next? With the Cairo Call to Action as a guide, stakeholders are already preparing to carry the momentum to COP29 and beyond, proving that the future of our cities truly starts at home.

About UN-Habitat:
UN-Habitat, the United Nations agency for sustainable urbanization, works with policymakers and communities to create socially and environmentally sustainable cities in over 90 countries. Visit unhabitat.org to learn more.

source :

https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2024/11/press_release_closing_of_wuf12_8november_2024.pdf