World Urban Forum Opens in Baku With Focus on Housing Access

Ministers and experts opened the World Urban Forum in Baku on Sunday with discussions about differences in housing access across countries. Slovakia's Deputy Prime Minister said that while 80% of Slovaks own their home, some countries see ownership rates as low as 20%.

He added that the gap creates disruption in social quality of living and that increasing prices remain a major topic. More than 40,000 delegates from 182 countries attended the United Nations conference on sustainable urbanisation. Delegates from Asia, Europe and Africa noted that rapid urbanisation, climate pressure and infrastructure deficits exceed what any single government can manage.

Minister of Housing said governments need to develop convincing projects backed by track records and integrity to attract investment. Once standards are met, he stated, more investors would be willing to participate.

Minister for Regional Development said the forum offers a place for inspiration rather than a single global solution. He noted he would return home with ideas for new approaches to improve housing conditions. African delegates said developing nations need greater access to financing and technology to keep pace with urban growth. The forum continues in Baku through 22 May.