Slums and informal settlements are the most visible physical manifestation of the ways in which poor urban planning and a lack of sustainable policy frameworks result in a deficit of adequate housing and serviced land.
Adequate housing in urban contexts is improved when:
1) A commitment to progressively realize the right to adequate housing is promoted by all key stakeholders, and
2) Affordable housing programmes are strategically linked with inclusive and sustainable urban development strategies such as participatory city- wide slum upgrading.
National governments must lead efforts to develop and implement guiding policies and strategies that plan for the adequate housing for all urban residents.