Overview of UN-Habitat
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UN-Habitat focuses on sustainable urban development and adequate shelter, working globally to improve cities and settlements. It addresses urbanization challenges through policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity building. Key initiatives include the World Urban Forum and World Habitat Day, promoting the New Urban Agenda and SDG 11.
Summary
Outline
Overview of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, known as UN-Habitat, is a specialized agency within the United Nations system dedicated to promoting sustainable urban development and adequate shelter for all. It was established in 1978, as a result of the first United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat I) held in Vancouver, Canada, in 1976. With its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, UN-Habitat is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to facilitate the development of socially and environmentally sustainable cities and human settlements. It is a key player in the United Nations Development Group and works in alignment with global development objectives, including those set out in the United Nations Millennium Declaration and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.Mandate and Objectives of UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat's mandate is rooted in the Habitat Agenda, which was adopted at the second United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II) in Istanbul in 1996. This agenda outlines the goals of ensuring adequate shelter for all and the development of sustainable human settlements in an increasingly urbanized world. UN-Habitat is also charged with contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The agency's specific targets include improving the lives of slum dwellers and enhancing access to safe drinking water and sanitation for urban populations.Activities and Programmes of UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat's work spans over 90 countries and focuses on seven thematic areas: urban legislation, land and governance; urban planning and design; urban economy; urban basic services; housing and slum upgrading; risk reduction and rehabilitation; and research and capacity development. The agency's projects and initiatives are designed to tackle the complexities of rapid urbanization, enhance the quality of urban life, and promote resilient and sustainable urban environments. Through technical assistance, policy advice, and capacity-building efforts, UN-Habitat supports governments and local communities in their endeavors to create better urban futures.Governance and Organizational Structure of UN-Habitat
The governance of UN-Habitat is composed of the UN-Habitat Assembly, the Executive Board, and the Committee of Permanent Representatives. The UN-Habitat Assembly, which includes all 193 United Nations member states, convenes every four years to set the strategic direction for the agency. The Executive Board, made up of 36 member states elected by the Assembly, is responsible for overseeing the operational activities and financial matters of UN-Habitat. The Committee of Permanent Representatives, consisting of diplomats accredited to the United Nations Office at Nairobi, provides advice and oversight. The Executive Director, who leads the agency's secretariat, is appointed by the UN Secretary-General and approved by the General Assembly. As of the latest information available, Maimunah Mohd Sharif holds the position of Executive Director.Conferences and Advocacy Initiatives of UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat has established several key platforms and campaigns to foster dialogue on urban issues and advance sustainable urban development. The World Urban Forum (WUF), launched in 2001, is the leading international conference on urban challenges and solutions, offering a non-legislative dialogue platform. The World Urban Campaign is another significant initiative that promotes the implementation of the New Urban Agenda, a document endorsed by the United Nations to steer urban development for the next two decades. Additionally, World Habitat Day is celebrated on the first Monday of October each year to raise awareness about the state of our towns and cities and the fundamental right to adequate shelter.Recognition and Collaboration within UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat honors exceptional contributions to human settlements development through the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award, established in 1989. This award celebrates innovative solutions that have made a significant impact on urban life and housing provision. Additionally, the United Nations Advisory Committee of Local Authorities (UNACLA) was created in 2000 to foster cooperation between the UN and local governments in implementing the Habitat Agenda. UNACLA collaborates closely with United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), which currently chairs the committee and co-manages its secretariat with UN-Habitat, to ensure that local perspectives are integrated into global urban development policies.
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Mandate and Objectives of UN-Habitat
Mandate
UN-Habitat is mandated to promote sustainable urban development and adequate shelter for all
Objectives
Habitat Agenda
The Habitat Agenda outlines the goals of ensuring adequate shelter and sustainable human settlements
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
UN-Habitat contributes to the achievement of SDGs, particularly Goal 11 for inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities
Targets
UN-Habitat aims to improve the lives of slum dwellers and enhance access to safe drinking water and sanitation in urban areas
Activities and Programmes of UN-Habitat
Thematic Areas
UN-Habitat focuses on seven thematic areas, including urban planning, basic services, and risk reduction, to promote sustainable urban environments
Projects and Initiatives
Through technical assistance and capacity-building efforts, UN-Habitat supports governments and local communities in creating better urban futures
Governance and Organizational Structure of UN-Habitat
Governance
UN-Habitat is governed by the UN-Habitat Assembly, Executive Board, and Committee of Permanent Representatives
Organizational Structure
The Executive Director, appointed by the UN Secretary-General, leads the agency's secretariat
Executive Director
Maimunah Mohd Sharif currently holds the position of Executive Director
Conferences and Advocacy Initiatives of UN-Habitat
World Urban Forum (WUF)
The WUF is a leading international conference on urban challenges and solutions
World Urban Campaign
The World Urban Campaign promotes the implementation of the New Urban Agenda for sustainable urban development
World Habitat Day
World Habitat Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about urban issues and the right to adequate shelter
Overview of UN-Habitat
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UN-Habitat Founding Conference and Location
Founded after Habitat I in Vancouver, 1976; headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.
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UN-Habitat's Role in UN Development Group
Acts as a key player, aligning with global development goals.
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UN-Habitat's Alignment with Global Agendas
Works in accordance with Millennium Declaration and 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
