17–22 May 2026
Baku, Azerbaijan
WUF13
Housing the world:
Safe and resilient cities and communities
Safe and resilient cities and communities
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WUF13 Theme
The theme of WUF13 “Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities” will shine a global spotlight on the urgent need to address the global housing crisis and position housing as a driver of inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban development.
Today, nearly 3 billion people face some form of housing inadequacy, with more than 1.1 billion living in informal settlements or slums, and over 300 million experiencing homelessness. As climate risks deepen and inequalities widen, WUF13 will explore how housing can advance inclusion, equity and resilience, highlighting practical solutions that connect homes to broader urban systems, including integrated planning, climate adaptation, land and tenure security, inclusive governance and locally driven action.
Taking place at the midpoint of the New Urban Agenda, WUF13 will play a pivotal role in shaping global discussions and will contribute to the 2026 UN Secretary-General’s report on its implementation.
WUF13 Dialogues
Dialogues are high-profile events that set the agenda for policy and action on the Forum theme. They bring together global leaders, practitioners and decision-makers to debate solutions, share insights and engage participants in shaping the way forward.
The six Dialogues at WUF13 will look at housing through different dimensions: how it can be recognized and advanced as a human right; how it can be placed at the centre of policy and practice across levels of governance and global agendas; and how ensuring adequate and equitable housing for all can unlock broader progress towards more inclusive, resilient and sustainable cities.
Key Focus Areas
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Shaping our urban future: Closing reflections from WUF12
WUF12 Highlights | Day 4
WUF12 Highlights | Day 3
Urban EXPO
We welcome WUF13 to Baku
We are proud to welcome the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) to Baku — an ideal platform for global dialogue, collaboration and action on the future of our cities. As the host city, Baku offers not only world-class infrastructure and hospitality, but also a compelling story of urban transformation, sustainability and inclusive growth.
WUF13 participants will experience a dynamic and welcoming city committed to shaping the urban future — where heritage and innovation thrive side by side, and where people are at the heart of development.
Baku is a city where the past meets the future. With its rich history, warm hospitality, striking architecture and vibrant culture life, Azerbaijan’s capital offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every visitor. Situated on the shores of the Caspian Sea, Baku has become a true bridge between East and West, tradition and progress. It is not just a host city — but a lasting impression.
With excellent connectivity and wide range of accommodation offerings, Baku is well-prepared to welcome the world.
Anar Guliyev
Chairman of State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and WUF13 National Coordinator
“We invite you all to Baku to join WUF13 – a significant milestone in our partnership with UN-Habitat. Our city welcomes you with friendship and a spirit of collaboration, ready to work together to advance our shared goals and contribute to shaping a better urban future for all – leaving no one behind!”