UNIS/SGSM/1441
4 October 2024
On World Habitat Day, we reaffirm the basic right of shelter and reflect on the transformation of urban environments.
This year’s theme highlights the vital role of young people in creating a better urban future. By 2030, 60 per cent of urban residents will be under the age of 18. As cities continue to grow, so does the opportunity to tap into the energy of young people to turn urban challenges into opportunities.
As last month’s Summit of the Future made clear, young people are crucial to building a more equitable and sustainable future. Making the most of that potential requires investing in education, expanding digital skills, fostering entrepreneurship and promoting youth-led initiatives on climate action, affordable housing and durable mobility.
All of this and more is vital to shaping vibrant, inclusive and resilient cities and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
As we celebrate World Habitat Day, let us support youth everywhere, include young people in decision-making, and build cities where people of all ages can thrive.
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"As we celebrate World Habitat Day, let us support youth everywhere, include young people in decision-making, and build cities where people of all ages can thrive." — António Guterres
Members of the media are invited to attend the twelfth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) which will be held from 14 to 18 October 2024 in Vienna, Austria.
"Gandhi believed non-violence was the greatest force available to humanity – more powerful than any weapon. Together, let's build institutions to support that noble vision." — António Guterres
"As populations age, care and support systems are vital for older persons to continue actively engaging and enriching their communities." — António Guterres
