The 2025 Annual Report presents how UN-Habitat advanced housing-led sustainable urban development as a foundation for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable cities. Framed around the principle that the future of humanity will be shaped in cities, the report highlights growing global recognition of adequate housing not only as shelter, but as a driver of dignity, equality, climate resilience and economic opportunity.
The report details major milestones achieved during the year, including the endorsement of UN-Habitat’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029 by 105 Member States, placing housing, land and basic services at the centre of efforts to reduce poverty and inequality, strengthen resilience and support communities affected by crises. It also captures renewed political momentum for adequate and affordable housing through global initiatives and high-level dialogues, including at ECOSOC, the United Nations General Assembly and COP30, where housing was recognized as a climate priority for the first time.
Alongside key global policy developments, the report showcases the tangible impact of coordinated action by governments, local authorities, communities and partners. Between 2020 and 2025, 41.2 million people transitioned out of slum-like conditions, 53 million gained access to improved water and sanitation services, and more than 465,000 households secured tenure rights to land. Through data-driven policymaking, partnerships and local action, the report demonstrates how sustained commitment to adequate housing can accelerate progress toward SDG 11, the New Urban Agenda and the broader 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
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