Urban October 2025

© Nerea Marti Sesarino

Cities: Where Challenges and Opportunities Meet

Today, cities are at the frontline of global change. They are magnets for opportunity, but also hotspots of the impacts of climate change, inequality and migration. Nearly one in four urban resident’s lives in informal settlements, often exposed to climate risks and lacking basic services. At the same time, cities attract people in search of safety, livelihoods, and a better future – making them centers of both vulnerability and resilience.

The Global Urban Footprint

Furthermore cities cover only 6% of the earth’s landmass, but they produce over 70% of CO₂ emissions and consume 70% of the world’s resources. Yet they also drive 80% of the global GDP. This dual role makes them both a source of today’s greatest challenges and a key to tomorrow’s solutions.

The potential for change is huge: nature-based solutions and proven measures in buildings, transport, materials, and waste could cut urban emissions by up to 90% by 2050. The economic return is just as impressive – an estimated US$24 trillion in benefits, more than the GDP of the United States.

Cities and Inequality

While cities generate prosperity, inequality within them often exceeds national averages. Vulnerable groups – from slum dwellers to migrants – are the ones most at risk when basic services, safe housing, and decent jobs are missing.

But cities can also reverse the trend. By investing in inclusive planning, fair access to infrastructure, and sustainable mobility, they can reduce poverty, close gaps, and create opportunities for all. Tackling inequality requires connecting social, economic, and environmental solutions into one integrated approach.

Urban October: A Global Call to Action

To highlight both the urgency and the possibilities, the United Nations launched the Urban October – a month dedicated to rethinking our cities. Each year, UN-Habitat and partners worldwide host activities, events, and discussions on how to make urbanization more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.

The month begins with World Habitat Day on the first Monday of October and concludes with World Cities Day on 31 October. Between these dates, Urban October offers countless opportunities to exchange ideas, share expertise, and explore solutions.