In a rapidly urbanising world, cities are increasingly shouldering the impacts of global crises.
Conflicts, political instability, and the climate emergency have forced 123 million people from their homes, many seeking safety in cities already under pressure, said United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in a message marking World Habitat Day 2025.
World Habitat Day is marked on the first Monday of October each year and is recognised by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. This year, the day will be across the globe, including in Bangladesh on 6 October.
Currently, about one in eight people live in informal settlements, and more than 300 million have no home at all. As cities become more crowded, essential services such as health, water systems, and transport networks are stretched, according to a UN press release.
The threat of new disasters continues to loom over these areas. However, cities are also hubs where solutions can take root.
“When we plan for inclusion, newcomers help to drive economies, strengthen communities, and enrich culture,” the secretary general said. This year’s World Habitat Day calls attention to solutions in housing, land rights, and access to water and sanitation.
The message further recognised the leadership of mayors and local governments and the resilience of urban communities, especially women and youth.
The Secretary-General stressed the importance of ensuring that innovations guarantee access to those most vulnerable, including people with disabilities, older persons, and children.
“A city is more than bricks and mortar. It is the promise of home,” the message concluded, encouraging collective efforts to build stronger, more inclusive cities that ensure safety and belonging for all.
