On World Cities Day, Secretary-General Urges Adequate Housing for All

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for World Cities Day, observed on 31 October:

On this World Cities Day, we confront a stark reality: more than 3 billion people lack access to adequate housing, including 1.1 billion living in informal settlements.

At the same time, cities — home to more than half of humanity — face ageing neighbourhoods, rising costs and intensifying climate risks.

Urban regeneration offers a path forward. By revitalizing existing urban areas, we can create more housing, upgrade infrastructure and improve public spaces, making cities more resilient, inclusive and connected.

Achieving this vision requires planning and partnership. National and local governments, financial institutions, the private sector and communities must work together to build cities that meet the needs of all residents, including women and young people, older persons and persons with disabilities.

Housing is more than just shelter. It is foundational to tackling inequality and speeding sustainable development.

I urge cities everywhere to invest in regeneration and adequate housing for all. Together, we can create greener, more secure and more affordable cities, where everyone has a place to call home.