IOM calls for cities to be transformed into spaces of opportunity for vulnerable communities

Cities should become spaces of opportunity, not just places of refuge, Rania Sharshar, director of Climate Action at the International Organization of Migration (IOM), said at the panel session "Peace-Positive Climate Action through Urban Solutions in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings" at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Report informs.

Sharshar called on the international community to reconsider current approaches to climate action.

"Combating climate change means, first and foremost, confronting inequality and building trust between people. Mogadishu is a prime example, where rapid population growth is placing a critical strain on healthcare, water, and energy systems. Climate-resilient housing and early warning mechanisms are already proving effective in protecting vulnerable communities. IOM plans to actively participate in WUF13 events on this topic over the remaining four days of the forum," the organization's director noted.