World Urban Forum 13
© GIZ – Mohamed Subahi
The thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) will take place from 17–22 May 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Convened by UN-Habitat it will bring together a wide range of urban stakeholders to explore solutions to the growing global housing crisis and to position housing as a foundation for safe and resilient cities and communities.
The theme of WUF13 “Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities” will shine a global spotlight on the urgent need to address the global housing crisis and position housing as a driver of inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban development.
Today, nearly 3 billion people face some form of housing inadequacy, with more than 1.1 billion living in informal settlements or slums, and over 300 million experiencing homelessness. As climate risks deepen and inequalities widen, WUF13 will explore how housing can advance inclusion, equity and resilience, highlighting practical solutions that connect homes to broader urban systems, including integrated planning, climate adaptation, land and tenure security, inclusive governance and locally driven action.
Taking place at the midpoint of the New Urban Agenda, WUF13 will play a pivotal role in shaping global discussions and will contribute to the 2026 UN Secretary-General’s report on its implementation.
Further information on German participation at WUF13 will follow soon.
