UN-Habitat

UN-Habitat, formally known as the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, is the United Nations’ key agency dedicated to promoting socially and environmentally sustainable cities and human settlements. Its vision is to ensure a better quality of life for all in an increasingly urban world, advocating for adequate shelter, reduced inequalities, and climate-resilient communities. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UN-Habitat operates in over 90 countries, providing policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity-building tailored to local urban development challenges. The organisation works closely with national and local governments, civil society, academic institutions, and the private sector, supporting innovative solutions for affordable housing, urban planning, governance, basic services, and crisis response. UN-Habitat’s mandate is rooted in several UN General Assembly resolutions and major international agreements, including the Habitat Agenda and the New Urban Agenda, making it the focal point for urbanisation and human settlement matters within the UN system. Its governance is structured around three bodies: the UN-Habitat Assembly, the Executive Board, and the Committee of Permanent Representatives, ensuring transparency and accountability. The agency’s strategic approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities. For Europe and beyond, UN-Habitat plays a leading role in tackling contemporary urban challenges such as affordable housing, climate adaptation, and the integration of sustainability into national and regional urban policies.