live Housing the World: WUF13 continues in Azerbaijan looking at advancing sustainable global urban development

Housing the World: WUF13 continues in Azerbaijan looking at advancing sustainable global urban development
A panel session was held as part of the 13th Session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 17 May 2026.
World Urban Forum

The World Urban Forum (WUF13) continues in Baku, Azerbaijan on 18 May, addressing the global housing crisis. The day’s agenda includes the official opening press conference, the WUF13 Urban Expo opening and a ministerial dialogue on the Nairobi Declaration to advance Africa's urban agenda.

⦿ 03:30 GMT | UPDATE

WUF13 in spotlight of global media

Azertag

Outlets in Pakistan, China, Russia, France, Egypt and Uzbekistan reported that the event serves as a major global platform on urban planning and sustainable development.

Coverage highlighted participation from more than 40,000 registered attendees from more than 180 countries, along with ministerial and leadership-level sessions introduced for the first time.

Reports focused on key themes such as affordable housing, climate resilience, smart cities and reconstruction projects in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur.

The event was also widely covered by media outlets in Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, India, Jordan, Iraq, Mozambique and other countries.

⦿ 03:00 GMT | UPDATE

Serbian President highlights importance of WUF13 

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić said the 13th United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) plays an important role in shaping the future of sustainable cities.

In an interview with AZERTAC, he noted that the forum brings together global leaders to exchange ideas and experiences.

"I think we will be able to apply many of the things we learn here in Serbia and achieve beneficial outcomes for our people," Vučić added.

⦿ 02:45 GMT | UPDATE

WUF13 panel highlights link between housing and climate resilience

Azertag

A panel session titled “Housing for Environmentally Sustainable and Resilient Urban Development” was held on 17 May within the framework of WUF13 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Discussions focused on the role of low-carbon and sustainable housing systems in addressing global climate challenges.

Speakers warned that continued environmental damage would further accelerate climate change and undermine efforts to build sustainable cities. 

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