Global Urban Forum in Baku Focuses on Housing Crisis Amid Afghanistan’s Refugee Return
The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) is scheduled to take place next week in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. This gathering will bring together leaders and officials from various countries to concentrate on the global challenges related to housing. This issue holds particular significance for Afghanistan, where over five million people have returned since 2023.
The World Urban Forum is one of the largest international conferences on urban planning and sustainable development, held under the auspices of the United Nations. During this event, solutions to housing shortages, unplanned urban growth, and access to urban services will be discussed.
In Afghanistan, the massive return of migrants in recent years has placed considerable strain on urban infrastructure and residential areas. Many returnees face a lack of shelter, insufficient basic services, and economic hardships.
Despite this situation, the Taliban administration has yet to present a clear and comprehensive plan to manage the housing crisis and sustainably integrate the returnees. Experts believe that without a national strategy and effective cooperation with international organizations, the challenge of accommodating millions of new residents could lead to increased urban poverty and social problems in the country.
