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Building global momentum for WUF13 across regions

As preparations for the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) progress, UN-Habitat is working closely with its regional and country offices to encourage broad and meaningful participation from partners worldwide. Through targeted outreach and capacity-building activities, these efforts are helping stakeholders understand how they can engage with WUF13 and contribute to global discussions on housing and sustainable urban development.

Arab States: supporting strong partner engagement

In the Arab region, UN-Habitat convened a virtual capacity-building workshop to support national stakeholders in developing high-quality proposals for partner-led events. Nearly 300 participants from government, academia, civil society, youth groups, research institutions and the private sector took part.

The workshop focused on practical guidance, from defining clear objectives and outcomes to aligning proposals with WUF13 thematic priorities such as housing, informal settlements, urban resilience and crisis recovery, equipping partners to translate ideas into concrete contributions to the Forum.

Asia and the Pacific: linking regional dialogue to the global agenda

Across Asia and the Pacific, WUF13 has been promoted through regional conferences, city networks and targeted engagements with mayors and urban leaders. Keynote interventions and panel discussions highlighted WUF13 as a global platform where regional innovations, climate-resilient approaches and inclusive urban practices can be shared and scaled.

These exchanges helped connect local and regional priorities with the global urban agenda, encouraging cities and partners to take part in WUF13 in Baku.

Engaging participants at the 14th Asia Smart City Conference in Fukuoka, Japan, through a dedicated WUF13 stand. Engaging participants at the 14th Asia Smart City Conference in Fukuoka, Japan, through a dedicated WUF13 stand.

Latin America and the Caribbean: expanding access and awareness

In Latin America and the Caribbean, UN-Habitat focused on accessible outreach, delivering online information sessions for partners on the WUF13 programme and application process for partner-led events. These efforts were reinforced through targeted digital and email campaigns, helping to broaden awareness and participation across the region.

Eastern Europe and Central Asia: engaging host country stakeholders

In Eastern Europe and Central Asia, engagement centred on mobilizing local stakeholders in Azerbaijan. Online information sessions introduced the WUF13 programme and highlighted opportunities to engage through national initiatives such as the Azerbaijan Urban Campaign and the upcoming Baku Urban Week, linking local action with global dialogue.

Together, these regional efforts reflect WUF13’s role as a platform by partners, for partners, ensuring that voices from all regions help shape the Forum and its outcomes as the world comes together in Baku in May 2026.

WUF13