World Habitat Day

Urban crisis response in a changing climate, the power of collective action in Tunisia, North Africa. Empowering communities: Integrated approaches for durable solutions supporting displaced people and displacement affected communities in Afghanistan  in Afghanistan, Central Asia. Building resilient cities in times of crisis: Urban solutions for climate impacts in Lao PDR in Lao People's Democratic Republic,Asia. Urban October: Celebrating Shelter, Indigenous Identity, and Global Solidarity  in Surigao City, Philippines; Asia. Supporting safe and resilient urban settlements in Sri Lanka , Asia. Community-Led Housing, Land and Property (HLP) Rights Documentation in Yemen's Recovery Process  in Aden, Yemen, Middle East. Building inclusive cities through durable solutions  in Colombia, Bogotá, Americas. Get the World Habitat Day Concept Note in  English | Arabic | Chinese | Russian | Spanish !

Director General of the United Nations Offices in Nairobi, Ms. Zainab Hawa Bangura; The Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Anacláudia Rossbach; Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a profound honour for me, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya, to welcome you all to the Global Observance of World Habitat Day 2025. It is a source of immense pride that we host this crucial event here at the UN−Habitat Headquarters in Nairobi, our capital city. Your presence is a powerful testament to our shared resolve to confront the challenges of urbanization and to kick off Urban October, a month dedicated to advocacy and action for sustainable urbanization. Allow me to express my gratitude to the Executive Director, the Secretariat, and all the teams for their tireless efforts in preparing for this important observance. I also wish to acknowledge the dedication of all Member States, partners, and stakeholders who have travelled from near and...

Every crisis has a human face. A family forced to flee their home. A child studying in a refugee camp. A community living without water or electricity. Today, crises are unfolding in our cities. Conflict, instability, and climate change are pushing millions into displacement. In 2024, a record 123 million people were forced from their homes – most of them seeking safety in cities that are already under strain. At the same time, nearly 3 billion people suffer from inadequate housing, and more than 1.1 billion live in informal settlements and slums. But crisis does not have to mean despair. At UN-Habitat, we have seen communities rise again when housing, land, and basic services are prioritized. In Iraq, displaced families have regained homes and stability. In Somalia, improved access to land has brought hope to the marginalized. In Lebanon, inclusive upgrading has turned divided neighbourhoods into united communities. These stories remind us that rebuilding homes is about more than bric...

In our rapidly urbanising world, cities often shoulder the impacts of today’s crises. Conflict, political instability, and the climate emergency have forced 123 million people from their homes – most seeking safety in cities and towns already under pressure. About one in eight people live in informal settlements, and more than 300 million have no home at all. Health services, water systems, and transport networks are stretched, while the risks of new disasters loom. Yet cities are where solutions can take root and grow. When we plan for inclusion, newcomers help to drive economies, strengthen communities, and enrich culture. On this World Habitat Day, we shine a light on solutions, from better housing, to land rights, to water and sanitation. We recognise the vital leadership of mayors and local governments, and the resilience of urban communities –– especially women and youth. Most of all, we seek to share the innovations that help guarantee access for the most vulnerable –– including...

World Habitat Day is marked on the first Monday of October each year and is recognized by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter . On 6 October 2025, the Global Observance of World Habitat Day will be linked to, urban crisis response. The theme will focus on addressing multiple crises affecting urban areas, including climate and conflicts that are contributing to inequality, and promote existing tools and approaches to effective crisis response. Related Sites and Documents:  Website  &  Concept Note . Watch the World Habitat Day 2025! Meetings & Events

  On 6 October 2025, the Global Observance of World Habitat Day will be linked to, urban crisis response. The theme will focus on addressing multiple crises affecting urban areas, including climate and conflicts that are contributing to inequality, and promote existing tools and approaches to effective crisis response. Global Observance at the  United Nations Office in Nairobi, Kenya.

  Focus on Urban solutions to crises.

  President of the UN Habitat assembly Y.B. Nga Kor Ming address on World Habitat Day 2025.

  UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen remarks on World Habitat Day 2025; October 6th.

  The  UNHCR High Commisioner Filipo Grandhi address on World Habitat Day 2025; October 6th.

  = Paula Gaviria Betancur, Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons address on World Habitat Day 2025.

  Governor of Gangwon State Korea Kim Jin-tae address on World Habitat Day 2025 .

   October 6th,  World Habitat Day 2025  global event Registration is now open.

Urban October  is an opportunity for everyone to be part of the conversation about the challenges and opportunities created by the fast rate of change in our cities and towns . The month begins with World Habitat Day on the first Monday of October , and ends with World Cities Day on 31 October . Activities take place on those specific days or at any time during the month. Get the toolkit!