Baku: The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) holds significant importance for young people, as highlighted by Joshua Fortedur, a representative of the Youth Advisory Board of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). Fortedur made these remarks during the 'Children and Youth Group' event at WUF13 in Baku.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Fortedur emphasized the necessity of placing young people at the forefront of decision-making processes in shaping future cities. He pointed out that while young individuals are aware of and understand the challenges facing today's urban environments, their ideas are not always fully incorporated into solutions. Fortedur advocated for youth-centered development, stressing that young people will ultimately become the workers, entrepreneurs, and foundational members of future communities.
Fortedur further elaborated on the urgency of involving young people comprehensively in urban development decisions, highlighting key areas such as water and sanitation issues and climate change. He noted that young people are actively mobilizing to address various problems, putting forward initiatives that could influence both social and economic advancements. The full participation of youth in these processes, starting immediately, is seen as crucial for ensuring positive future developments.