Cities face growing pressures from rapid urbanization, climate risks, and inequality. This study compares 26 global urban assessment tools in relation to , offering evidence-based insights that link global frameworks with local needs and support greener, more resilient urban development.

Public spaces are vital for the dynamic social, environmental and health need functions as part of public life of diverse user groups, as they provide areas for social encounter, civic and political engagement, recreation (including work, play and study), shelter needs and other forms of community engagement. This publication has examined the crucial role that legislation, governance, and financial frameworks play as critical aspects of public space management and development. It has provided a…

The Global Assessment of Responsible AI in Cities offers a comprehensive overview of how artificial intelligence is transforming urban environments worldwide. Drawing from a global survey, 70+ case studies, and expert consultations, the report uncovers the benefits and risks of rapidly expanding AI adoption in cities. It highlights how AI is improving mobility, public services, safety, and planning, while also exposing critical challenges—from data privacy and high implementation costs to…

The Design Guidelines for Safe and Inclusive Public Spaces in Palestine is a strategic and technical reference developed by UN-Habitat in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government under the HAYA Joint Programme funded by the Government of Canada. This document provides a comprehensive framework for Local Government Units (LGUs) to plan and design public spaces that are safe, inclusive, and accessible for all, particularly women, girls, children, older persons, and persons with…

The Her City Guide - Mainstreaming inclusion in sustainable urban development through gender-transformative innovation

Her City supports urban development starting with the girl’s perspective. Involving girls in urban development will make the city better for everyone because girls plan and design with diversity and different needs in mind. Participatory processes are key for planning a city that works for everyone, and if we let citizens that are rarely heard be the experts,…

Global snapshot of spatial inclusion in cities. Using the latest data, this UN-Habitat report distils challenges and solutions across six regions (Africa, Asia–Pacific, Europe, Latin America & the Caribbean, MENA, North America), pairing regional factsheets with urban regeneration case studies to guide inclusive policy and practice. Produced by the Flagship Programme Inclusive Communities, Thriving Cities.

How urban regeneration can catalyse slum transformation. This UN-Habitat paper links physical, economic, social, environmental and governance actions to upgrade housing and services, secure tenure, grow livelihoods and embed climate resilience—reducing displacement and spatial injustice—with lessons from Jamaica, Kenya, Brazil and Colombia.

Clarification Note for UN-Habitat’s ‘Inclusive Communities, Thriving Cities’ Flagship Programme: frames urban regeneration as an integrated, inclusive, area-based process to reduce spatial inequality and advance the SDGs; clarifies terms (renewal, revitalisation, regeneration); maps key entry points; and showcases global practice.