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World Habitat Day 2024 emphasizes the theme “Engaging youth to create a better urban future,” serving as a call to action for young leaders—particularly Millennials and Gen Z—to shape their urban environments. The day highlights the importance of youth engagement in addressing pressing urban challenges, such as housing shortages and climate change.

As urbanization accelerates worldwide, cities become home to a new generation of leaders and change makers. Today, on October 7, 2024, UN-Habitat invites individuals dedicated to sustainable urban development to join the Global Observance of World Habitat Day, themed “Engaging youth to create a better urban future.” This year’s celebration in Querétaro, Mexico, emphasizes empowering youth to take charge of shaping their urban landscapes through participatory processes and local leadership.

Mobilizing the Next Generation

World Habitat Day 2024 is not just a moment for reflection; it is a clarion call for action. Young people—particularly Millennials and Gen Z—serve as essential drivers of sustainable urban development, and their leadership is crucial in tackling today’s challenges. This observance challenges the next generation to step up, transform urban challenges into opportunities, and champion their right to adequate housing.

Voices from Leadership: The United Nations’ Commitment

In a statement for World Habitat Day, the United Nations Secretary-General reaffirms the basic right to shelter and the importance of urban transformation. He highlights that by 2030, 60 percent of urban residents will be under 18, emphasizing the need to harness the energy of young people to turn urban challenges into opportunities. Investing in education, expanding digital skills, and fostering entrepreneurship are essential to building vibrant, inclusive, and resilient cities.

The Executive Director of UN-Habitat echoes this sentiment, celebrating youth as the heartbeat of our cities and urging them to act. With crises like housing shortages and climate change looming, the call to engage youth in sustainable urban planning is more urgent than ever. He stresses that housing is fundamental to sustainable development and impacts various societal issues, from poverty reduction to gender equality.

A Legacy of Reflection: The History of World Habitat Day

World Habitat Day is established by the United Nations for the first Monday of October each year. Its purpose is to reflect on the state of our habitats and the fundamental right of all individuals to adequate shelter. The first observance in 1986, held in Nairobi, Kenya, carries the theme “Shelter is My Right,” setting a precedent for future discussions on urban issues.

Over the years, themes vary, addressing critical topics such as homelessness, urbanization, and climate change, each highlighting the global commitment to improving urban living conditions.

Image Source: UN- Habitat