At the 3rd session of the Executive Board of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), held in Kenya, a decision was adopted to convene the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in the capital city of Baku on 17–22 May 2026.

 

Organized by UN-Habitat, the Forum serves as a high-level, open and inclusive platform for addressing the challenges of sustainable urbanization. Pursuant to the relevant United Nations resolution adopted in 2001, the Forum—recognized as one of the most authoritative and widely attended global gatherings in the field of urban development—is convened biennially in one of the world’s cities and constitutes one of the largest global platforms dedicated to examining rapid urbanization and its impact on cities and communities.

The World Urban Forum (WUF) is the leading global conference on sustainable urbanization. Established by the United Nations in 2001, it was created to examine one of the most pressing challenges facing the world today—rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate systems, and public policy. The first session (WUF1) was held from 29 April to 3 May 2002 in Nairobi, Kenya, and since then the Forum has been convened biennially in cities around the world.

The hosting of this landmark event—the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13)—in Baku on 17–22 May 2026 stands as a testament to Azerbaijan’s strong international standing. It reflects the comprehensive urban development reforms undertaken by the Government of Azerbaijan, the successful implementation of large-scale projects across the country, the tangible achievements attained in this sphere, as well as the country’s meaningful contribution to the global urban agenda.

In terms of its scope and substance, the Forum is regarded as one of the largest and most strategically significant global platforms in the field. The organization of this major event in Baku demonstrates Azerbaijan’s growing role not only at the regional level but also globally in the areas of urban development, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. 

The significance of WUF13 in Baku is closely linked to several important anniversaries for UN-Habitat and its partners. In 2026, a number of historic milestones will be commemorated: the 50th anniversary of the Habitat I Conference (1976), which laid the foundation for the establishment of UN-Habitat; the 30th anniversary of the Habitat II Conference (Istanbul, 1996); and the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the New Urban Agenda (2016). These milestones reflect key stages in the United Nations’ work in urban development and underscore the strategic importance of promoting sustainable urban growth, improving living standards, and safeguarding the environment.

The convening of WUF13 in Baku is particularly significant both for the international commemoration of these anniversaries and for presenting Azerbaijan’s experience in urban development on a global stage. The Forum will provide countries with an opportunity to reflect on accumulated experience and to identify innovative solutions for the future. For Azerbaijan, WUF13 represents an important platform to further strengthen its position within the global urban agenda and to promote sustainable and smart urban development models across the region.

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) is expected to be one of the largest events ever hosted in the region. Within its framework, stakeholders from Azerbaijan and abroad—including government officials, representatives of non-governmental organizations, urban development professionals, experts, and private sector representatives—will engage in broad exchanges of views and share knowledge and experience.

In an increasingly globalized world, urban development has become a key priority for improving quality of life, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainable economic growth. Cities are expanding rapidly; ensuring that this growth remains planned and sustainable is vital for future generations. In its development strategies, Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to shaping urban development in a human-centered, environmentally responsible, and economically sustainable manner. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, comprehensive urban development programs, modern infrastructure projects, and large-scale reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories have positioned Azerbaijan among the leading countries of the region in this field.

On the path toward hosting WUF13, Baku stands out for tangible achievements: the expansion of green spaces, the implementation of smart city approaches, the organization of high-level meetings on urban development within the framework of COP29, and active participation in international expert groups reflect Azerbaijan’s strategic vision. WUF13 will serve not only urban development professionals but also global stakeholders working in climate action, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and human well-being, offering a forward-looking roadmap for building the cities of the future.

Azerbaijan remains committed to international cooperation in addressing global urban development challenges. In this context, cooperation within the framework of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is of particular importance.

As part of this cooperation, Azerbaijan hosted its First National Urban Forum on 5–6 October 2022, jointly organized with UN-Habitat in the cities of Aghdam and Baku, bringing together 400 participants from 44 countries. On 29 September 2023, within the framework of “Urban Planning Week 2023,” organized in cooperation between UN-Habitat and the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Second National Urban Forum was opened in Zangilan under the theme “Sustainable Cities as Drivers of Economic Development and Forces Combating Inequality.” On 15 October 2025, the opening ceremony of the Third Azerbaijan National Urban Forum was held in Khankendi, with subsequent sessions continuing in Baku.

The hosting of WUF13 in Baku holds strategic significance not only geographically but also as part of broader global urban transformation processes. The Forum will function as a universal platform bringing together leading urban development professionals, policymakers, and experts, and will serve as an important space for dialogue on innovative urban models for future generations.

Recent comprehensive urban renewal, infrastructure modernization, and greening initiatives in Baku reflect Azerbaijan’s long-term vision for sustainable urban planning. Newly established parks, revitalized public spaces, and an ecologically balanced urban structure are transforming Baku into a more sustainable and livable city. These initiatives demonstrate the country’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to prestigious international events such as WUF13.

The convening of the Forum in Baku will further contribute to international recognition of Azerbaijan’s extensive work in urban development and territorial restoration. Smart and environmentally sustainable settlements being constructed in the liberated territories illustrate Azerbaijan’s progressive approach in this domain.

The principles underpinning urban development in Azerbaijan—social well-being, ecological balance, and technological innovation—define the strategic direction guiding the country’s development. In this context, Baku is emerging as an important example of a modern urbanization model at both national and international levels.

The convening of WUF13 in Azerbaijan testifies to the country’s deepening cooperation with UN-Habitat and its increasingly active role in global urban development processes. For Azerbaijan, the Forum represents not only an opportunity to showcase achievements but also a platform for strengthening international partnerships aimed at addressing climate change, urban governance, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

By the Order of President Ilham Aliyev dated 22 December 2025, the year 2026 has been declared the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture,” marking an important milestone in the country’s socio-economic and strategic development. This decision reflects the commitment of the Azerbaijani state to preserving historical heritage, responding to contemporary urbanization challenges, and advancing sustainable development objectives.

The declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” will serve as a strategic bridge between past achievements and future progress. Initiatives implemented within this framework will contribute to preserving historical heritage while advancing a modern, sustainable, and human-centered urban model. In this way, Azerbaijan’s cities will continue to develop not only as places of residence, but also as carriers of national identity, culture, and innovation.