Each year, World Habitat Day focuses attention on the state of human settlements.

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This year’s theme – ‘Mind the Gap. Leave No One and No Place Behind’ – puts the spotlight on widening inequalities in living conditions across the world.

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A cascade of challenges – from climate chaos and conflicts to COVID-19 – is hitting the most vulnerable populations the hardest.

Rapid and unplanned urbanization is exacerbating many of these challenges.

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Today, over one billion people live in overcrowded settlements with inadequate housing – and that number is rising every day.

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We need more urgent action and greater investment to provide affordable housing to all – alongside access to electricity, water, sanitation, transport, and other basic services.

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To leave no one behind is the core pledge of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

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This means making cities work for women and children and closing existing gaps: between the haves and the have-nots; within and between urban and rural areas; and within and between developed and developing regions.

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Inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements are crucial – and local action is key.

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Cities, towns, and communities can spearhead innovative solutions to address inequalities, ensure adequate shelter for all, tackle the climate crisis and drive a green and inclusive pandemic recovery.

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This includes pursuing people-centered policies, promoting sustainable patterns of consumption and production, and prioritizing green and resilient infrastructure.

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On World Habitat Day, let us pledge to live up to our shared responsibility to one another.