Living in Inclusive Cities - Accessible, equitable housing and the critical role of infrastructure.

As cities across the world respond to the global housing crisis, there is a growing recognition that housing alone is not enough. For persons with disabilities, access to transport, streets, public spaces, and services determines whether housing enables participation or reinforces exclusion. This networking event at World Urban Forum 13 brings together government representatives, organisations of persons with disabilities, development partners, and urban practitioners to explore how cities can move from a “units-first” approach to an inclusive ecosystem approach for urban development. Drawing on evidence and learning from the Global Disability Innovation Hub Inclusive City Pilot in Addis Ababa, the session will examine practical pathways for embedding accessibility and inclusive design into housing, infrastructure, and broader urban systems. Through a moderated discussion, panellists will reflect on the gap between policy commitments and implementation, identify opportunities for inclusive urban transformation, and explore the partnerships needed to scale impact. The session aims to generate actionable insights and key messages to advance inclusive and accessible cities in Addis Ababa and similar urban contexts globally.