WUF12 Perspectives. Voices on localization for sustainable urban development

WUF12 Perspectives is a new UN-Habitat analysis that captures the diverse views of participants from the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), held in Cairo, Egypt, in November 2024. Centered on the theme of localization, this publication synthesizes insights shared by over 25,000 stakeholders, including urban practitioners, policymakers, community members, and experts. It reflects a broad range of perspectives on how localization can advance sustainable urban development, specifically in the context of the housing, climate and humanitarian crises.

Localization is explored through three key dimensions as voiced by participants throughout the Forum’s extensive discussions: implementation, representation, translation. Building on these dimensions, WUF12 Perspectives identifies nine tangible elements that stakeholders can apply to embed localization in their work. These findings provide practical guidance for stakeholders on the ground and inform global policy and institutional frameworks. Grounded in the voices of WUF12 participants, this analysis advances a locally driven agenda for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.