Global housing crisis deepens as UN-Habitat warns of rapid escalation

The global housing crisis is continuing to deteriorate rapidly, while rising climate risks and growing urban inequality require new approaches to urban development, according to Patrick Canagasingham, Director of Regional Programmes at UN-Habitat.

He made the remarks at the Forum of Ministers and High Authorities of Housing and Urban Development of Latin America and the Caribbean (MINURVI), held during the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, adding that although challenges are intensifying, countries in Latin America and the Caribbean already have significant experience in addressing such issues, Caliber.Az report via local media.

“Climate risks are increasing, and inequality in cities is worsening. However, Latin America and the Caribbean are not starting from scratch. The region has rich experience in this area. The most important thing is that they are focusing on innovation in addressing these challenges,” he said.

Canagasingham added that between 2026 and 2029, housing will play a critical role in global development, stressing that housing should not be viewed as a separate sector.

“Today, housing is seen simply as a sector. In reality, housing is everything because it is connected to climate, economic recovery, and the social stability it provides,” he noted.

By Jeyhun Aghazada