UN Report Details Housing Solutions

UN-Habitat released a new report in Baku, Azerbaijan, detailing successful housing solutions from around the world. The report, launched at the 13th World Urban Forum, finds up to 3.4 billion people lack adequate housing globally, with over 1.1 billion living in informal settlements. It highlights programs in Thailand, Jordan, Brazil, and Tanzania where communities are upgrading existing housing with state support, reclaiming spaces, and adopting climate-resilient practices.

The UN report emphasizes a shift from evictions and slum clearance toward in-situ upgrading, tailored to local needs. In Jordan, rehabilitated parks near refugee camps aim to ease tensions, while Brazil’s favela programs focus on improving infrastructure without displacement. The report also connects housing to climate change, noting buildings contribute roughly 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

However, the report acknowledges limitations, such as reliance on community savings potentially creating uneven progress. It also warns against climate adaptation efforts that could displace low-income communities. UN-Habitat continues to advocate for housing as a human right, supporting governments and communities in building long-term, sustainable solutions.