Young people at WUF13 call for stronger collaboration with UN-Habitat for sustainable cities

Young people should deepen their collaboration with UN-Habitat and international partners to implement the New Urban Agenda and shape the inclusive urban spaces of the future, Ugandan youth representative Jonathan Ricky said at the joint closing dialogue of the Assemblies at the World Urban Forum (WUF13), according to Report.

He stated that such collaboration is necessary to support the implementation of the New Urban Agenda, monitor progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 11, and advance UN-Habitat's new Strategic Plan for 2026–2029, which focuses on creating inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered cities.

"We also commit to strengthening intergenerational collaboration. This is not just a concept. It is a practice of co-design, shared responsibility, and shared accountability," Ricky emphasized.

He noted that it is future generations who will live with the consequences of decisions made today.

"Years from now, future generations may not remember the speeches delivered here in Baku. They may not remember the declarations adopted at this forum. But they will live with the consequences of the decisions we make here," said the Ugandan representative.

Ricky called for creating cities where young people can feel a sense of belonging and find opportunities for self-fulfillment.

"Let's build cities where every child and every young person can find their place and feel a sense of belonging," he added.