World Cities Day, observed annually on October 31, highlights the need to build sustainable, inclusive and prosperous urban centres as cities continue to grow and face mounting challenges.
First marked in 2014, the United Nations-designated day promotes efforts to improve urban living conditions through better infrastructure, affordable housing and climate-resilient neighbourhoods.
This year's global observance will be hosted in Fuzhou, China, with a focus on improving existing neighbourhoods and infrastructure while encouraging community participation in urban development.
The day also draws attention to the housing and basic services crisis affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the United Nations, up to 3.4 billion people lack adequate housing or access to basic services.
The observance calls for inclusive urban planning that puts communities at the centre of development, protects residents from displacement and ensures that improvements benefit all, particularly vulnerable populations.
It also underscores the importance of creating neighbourhoods that can withstand climate-related challenges while providing safe and affordable places to live.
