Baku: The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) is set to commence in the city of Baku, from May 17 to 22, 2026. The announcement was made during the 3rd session of the Executive Board of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) held in Kenya.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is a major conference that addresses the challenges of rapid urbanization and its effects on communities, cities, and policies worldwide. The forum's 13th session will focus on the theme 'Housing for All: Safe and Resilient Cities and Human Settlements,' aiming to address the global housing crisis and promote sustainable urbanization.

WUF13 will gather governments, local authorities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to exchange knowledge and best practices. The event will emphasize the role of housing in promoting inclusivity, resilience, and sustainable urban development, with discussions on the transformation of informal settlements, the link between housing and climate change, and the role of housing in post-crisis recovery.

The opening day will feature a flag raising ceremony and a ministerial meeting related to the New Urban Agenda. This meeting, chaired by Azerbaijan, will evaluate the progress of the New Urban Agenda and shape future implementation strategies up to 2036. Discussions will focus on housing's role in social inclusion, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability.

High-level dialogues and special sessions will delve into critical urban issues such as climate adaptation, housing provision, and urban renewal. Assemblies and roundtables will provide platforms for diverse stakeholder groups to articulate priorities and explore solutions to emerging challenges, contributing to collective advocacy for sustainable urban development.

WUF13 aims to accelerate joint action towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The event will culminate with the adoption of the Chair's Summary document and the Baku Call to Action, reflecting the main recommendations and contributing to global accountability processes.