Baku: More than 60% of people displaced worldwide settle in cities rather than refugee camps, said Anna Soave, UN-Habitat Country Representative in Azerbaijan, APA-Economics reports from the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, these individuals often reside in informal settlements, distanced from basic services, employment opportunities, and safe living conditions. Anna Soave noted that for those who have lost their homes and cannot return, cities serve as both shelters and places presenting new challenges.

She highlighted that climate change is an immediate concern that exacerbates existing issues, especially in areas affected by conflict. The UN-Habitat official stated that climate change adds pressure to already fragile systems, complicates infrastructure reconstruction, and increases community vulnerability.

Anna Soave emphasized the need for infrastructure designed to endure adverse conditions, not just favorable weather. She mentioned that UN-Habitat, alongside the Government of Azerbaijan, the Baku Climate and Peace Action Hub supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is working to implement this initiative.