As urban populations soar, the world faces a housing emergency: 2.8 billion people live in inadequate housing, threatening social stability, public health, and sustainable development.
In an exclusive conversation with CMG's Wang Guan, UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach calls for global solidarity and bold action to reverse this trend. 'Safe, affordable, dignified shelter is a human right,' she says, urging governments, civil society, and the private sector to join forces.
A People-Centered Blueprint
Rossbach points to the Chinese mainland's rapid urban transformation as a lesson in large-scale renewal. 'Chinese mainland cities have prioritized people at every step—from renovation of aging neighborhoods to the development of green spaces,' she explains. This approach balances economic growth with community needs and environmental concerns.
Scaling Solutions Worldwide
Drawing on UN-Habitat's latest data, Rossbach highlights pilot projects that blend social housing, digital planning tools, and local partnerships. These models have reduced costs by up to 30 percent and improved living conditions in cities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Charting a Path Forward
Rossbach believes that sharing expertise and investing in inclusive urban policies can unlock new opportunities. 'Our goal is to ensure no one is left behind,' she notes, calling on young entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and community leaders to drive change in their cities.
As the global community prepares for the UN-Habitat Assembly later this year, the message is clear: building resilient, inclusive cities is a collective responsibility—and the time to act is now.
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Exclusive with UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach
cgtn.com
