What the Cairo Call to Action means for our urban future

Participants during the youth roundtable at the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12). Cairo, Egypt, November 2024. [Mohamed Mayer]

Participants during the youth roundtable at the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12). Cairo, Egypt, November 2024. [Mohamed Mayer]

With cities under growing pressure from housing shortages, urban poverty, and climate change, the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), convened by UN-Habitat in collaboration with the Government of Egypt in Cairo from 4 to 8 November 2024, focused on driving local solutions for sustainable urban development.

Under the theme "It all starts at home: Local actions for sustainable cities and communities", WUF12 brought together global leaders, local governments, civil society, and urban practitioners to exchange strategies and inspire action.

A key outcome of WUF12, the Cairo Call to Action, sets a bold vision for urban transformation. It highlights the urgent need for inclusive housing policies, resilient public spaces, and stronger climate action, emphasizing the role of local governments, communities, and urban stakeholders in shaping sustainable cities. The Call recognizes housing as a human right and urges all actors to take decisive steps toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the New Urban Agenda.

The Cairo Call to Action is now available for download in all six UN official languages.

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