Why Do Inclusive Cities Matter?

Housing is much more than just a roof over our heads; it’s a symbol of health and dignity. Still, nearly 3 billion people across the world live in inadequate or unsafe conditions, including overcrowded homes, informal settlements, or without shelter altogether.  

Each day, inadequate housing jeopardizes the health and safety of more and more people, deepening existing social inequalities.  

It is estimated that by 2030, about 3 billion people (40% of the global population) will require access to adequate housing.  

Beyond shelter, housing offers essential services that can empower people and communities to thrive.  

Launched at COP28 in Dubai on 7 December 2023 – in collaboration with the American University in Dubai, UN-Habitat's World Urban Campaign (WUC), and FIABCI – the Housing Matters campaign offers a global platform to highlight the role housing plays in building resilient, equitable, low-carbon cities.  

The campaign advocates for a holistic approach to housing: one that takes into account climate change action, social inclusion, and innovative design. It also includes a clear Call to Action for stakeholders to contribute tangible solutions.  

Housing solutions often come from lived experiences. The campaign is actively inviting people from all communities and organizations to share their ideas on addressing housing challenges. Contributions are amplified through social channels, the Urban Thinkers Campus, and opportunities to influence meetings like the World Urban Forum.  

Since its inception in 2010, the WUC has grown into a coalition of over 250 organizations across 16 constituencies, all championing urban advocacy through democratic governance.  

Through systems such as the Urban Thinkers Campus, WUC has mobilized thousands of stakeholders. Notably, between 2014 and 2023, UTC sessions engaged over 54,000 participants across 310 events, shaping crucial urban agendas from the New Urban Agenda to SDG 11 implementation.  

Housing Matters isn’t just a slogan: it’s a mission to make change. By advocating for adequate, climate-conscious, and inclusive housing, we pave the way for more equal and resilient communities.  

For more information, please visit the campaign.