Baku: The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), to be held in Baku from May 17 to 22, will introduce a new space called the Practices Hub platform, designed to promote practical and solution-oriented discussions in the fields of housing and urban planning, the Operating Company told APA. The platform emphasizes implementation and application issues, gathering proven approaches, acquired experience, and opportunities for mutual learning.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, within the framework of the WUF13 theme 'Housing for All: Safe and Resilient Cities and Human Settlements,' the Practices Hub will showcase positive transformations achieved through practical housing solutions. The platform aims to highlight successful practices from various regions, contributing to turning knowledge into action by connecting decision-makers and practitioners with implementation processes.
The platform is part of a global process that called for practical examples in housing provision, resulting in over 200 submissions from countries worldwide. Expert groups selected 171 examples, reflecting solutions involving different levels of governance and factors, including initiatives implemented by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and its partners. Covering 84 countries, the selected examples include contributions from national and local governments, civil society, the private sector, foundations, and academic circles. Participants will access these initiatives via an interactive digital monitor, enabling them to search for solutions tailored to specific needs.
The Practices Hub will host 11 interactive sessions, each bringing together organizations from different countries working on similar challenges. These 90-minute dialogue sessions will demonstrate various approaches to the same issue, fostering discussions on successful experiences and solutions adaptable or expandable in different environments. Additionally, a dedicated networking area will offer opportunities for direct contact with practitioners, policymakers, and partners, facilitating experience exchange and cooperation opportunities.
The Practices Hub aims to be a long-term contribution to the global knowledge base in housing, extending beyond WUF13. All practices will be accessible through a digital platform featuring detailed information and case studies to support continuous learning and experience exchange. The platform will be regularly updated, with its database expanding over time. The primary goal is to support the continuous implementation of the New Urban Agenda and accelerate the global application of effective housing solutions by sharing acquired experiences and encouraging the adaptation of successful approaches elsewhere.