Application period extended

Nairobi, 30 November 2023 — Expressions of interest to host the Global Observance of World Habitat Day are now open. The deadline for submissions has been extended to 30 August 2024.

Established in 1985 by the United Nations General Assembly, World Habitat Day aims to raise international awareness of urbanization trends, challenges, visions, and sustainable solutions, and to remind the world of our collective power and responsibility in shaping the future of our cities and towns. UN-Habitat, as the agency responsible for sustainable urbanization in the United Nations system, coordinates the celebration of World Habitat Day around the world.

In 2025, World Habitat Day will focus on addressing crises affecting urban areas and promoting tools and approaches for effective crisis response. The Global Observance of World Habitat Day will be held on Monday, 6 October 2025.

UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award

A major highlight of World Habitat Day is the presentation of the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award recognizing best urban practices. The award celebrates initiatives that have made outstanding contributions to the field of sustainable urban development such as actions to improve affordable housing and equitable access to basic services, climate change mitigation initiatives, and those to provide better livelihoods for the vulnerable. The award is given to a maximum of five winners each year, following a call for nominations by UN-Habitat.

Access the full guidance on hosting the Global Observance of World Habitat Day 2025