Baku to host week-long urban development forum ahead of WUF13

Baku will host “Baku Urban Week” from May 11 to 17 as part of preparations for the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum 13, bringing together policymakers, urban planners, researchers, artists, and young innovators for a series of discussions and public events focused on the future of cities.

Organisers said the event will serve as the culmination of the nationwide Azerbaijan Urban Campaign and will feature activities across multiple locations in the Azerbaijani capital, including historic landmarks, cultural heritage sites, and venues highlighting contemporary urban planning initiatives, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

According to the organisers, the programme is intended to connect global urban development debates with Baku’s own urban transformation experience while encouraging participation from both local residents and international visitors.

The week-long initiative will be structured around four thematic strands.

The “Interdisciplinary Urban Dialogue” segment will include conferences, panel discussions, and expert meetings aimed at promoting exchanges between local and international specialists.

The “Urban Innovation Laboratory” will focus on developing innovative ideas into practical urban planning solutions, while the “Urban Routes” programme will offer themed walking tours exploring different stages of Baku’s urban development and architectural history.

A separate “Urban Culture and Arts” track will examine urban issues through artistic and cultural expression.

Organisers said Baku Urban Week is being implemented through cooperation between Azerbaijani government institutions, academic bodies, and research organisations ahead of the next World Urban Forum session.

By Sabina Mammadli