Today, Biodiversity Hub International emphasises the importance of inclusive and equitable development under the theme “Mind the Gap. Leave No One and Place Behind.” On this day, we recognise the need to address the gaps in access to adequate housing and basic services, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind.
Access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. However, millions of people around the world still lack adequate shelter, facing precarious living conditions, homelessness, and inadequate infrastructure. We must bridge this gap and strive for inclusive and sustainable urban development.
On this World Habitat Day, let us focus on leaving no one and no place behind. It means ensuring that everyone, regardless of their income, gender, age, or background, has access to secure and decent housing, clean water, sanitation, and other essential services. It means promoting inclusive urban planning that considers the needs of all residents, including the most vulnerable.
Addressing the housing gap requires collective action. Governments, local authorities, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to implement policies and initiatives that promote affordable housing, slum upgrading, and sustainable urbanization. We must prioritize community participation and empowerment, recognizing that sustainable solutions emerge from the ground up.
Let us also emphasize the importance of sustainable and resilient cities and human settlements. By adopting green building practices, promoting energy efficiency, and investing in climate resilience, we can create cities that are not only inclusive but also environmentally friendly and capable of withstanding the challenges of the future.
Today, let us reaffirm our commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By minding the gap and leaving no one and no place behind, we can create cities and communities that are truly inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.
Happy World Habitat Day! 🏡🌍💙
Photo by Jargan josh
