Baku: The global housing crisis and urban inequality have emerged as significant challenges in contemporary urbanization, as highlighted by Anacl¡udia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). Rossbach addressed these issues during the panel discussion titled 'Housing for Social Inclusion and Poverty Eradication' at WUF13, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Rossbach pointed out that approximately 3 billion people are currently living under inadequate housing conditions. She further elaborated that over 1 billion individuals reside in informal settlements, with hundreds of millions experiencing homelessness. The UN-Habitat leader underscored the compounded pressures cities face, including climate change, forced displacement, escalating land prices, and increasing social inequality.

Rossbach argued that the current scenario underscores the necessity for robust public governance, strategic long-term planning, and comprehensive partnerships in housing policy. She emphasized that land and housing should not be treated merely as commercial commodities, highlighting their social and environmental roles in serving public welfare.

She proposed that transforming housing systems is critical for fostering inclusive and sustainable urban environments. Key priorities identified include expanding the social and public housing stock, upgrading informal settlements, and enhancing access to land and essential services. Rossbach also acknowledged the significance of the Open-Ended Intergovernmental Expert Working Group on 'Adequate Housing for All' as a vital multilateral platform for the New Urban Agenda's implementation.

Rossbach expressed that this platform offers a collaborative space for states, local authorities, and partners to devise practical solutions. She mentioned that the event will feature three panels focusing on interconnected topics like social inclusion, urban well-being, and climate resilience.

In closing, Rossbach underlined that the primary challenge is no longer the formulation of strategies but their effective implementation. She stressed the importance of reinforcing cooperation among governments and aligning policies related to housing, land, infrastructure, finance, and climate.