UN Raises Alarm Over Poor Housing Conditions Facing Millions Of Youth

2026-05-21 07:08:52

(MENAFN- Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 21. Millions of young people around the world live in inadequate housing, live in informal settlements, or face the increasing impacts of climate change in their neighborhoods, which must change, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs Felipe Paullier said at a roundtable event titled "Children and Youth" within the framework of WUF13 in Baku, Trend reports.

Paullier noted that every young person deserves a home that provides a sense of safety, dignity, and hope.

"Every city, every community, and every neighbourhood has a responsibility to make this possible. That means investing in affordable housing, ensuring access to essential services, and creating safe, inclusive public spaces where all children and young people can thrive," the official explained.

According to him, homes alone aren't enough.

"A livable city for young people must be healthy, inclusive, and full of opportunities. It must have adequate and affordable housing, clean air and green spaces, where mobility and essential urban services are safe and accessible, and where young people are connected to quality education, decent work opportunities and digital opportunities," he said.

The UN official stressed that young people around the world are already leading the way.

"They are implementing innovative approaches, organizing and rebuilding their communities in bold and creative ways.

What young people need most is real power - real participation in shaping decisions based on institutions and systems.

That's why today I appeal to politicians, city leaders, and institutions: please listen to young people, invest in their solutions and institutionalize their meaningful participation in urban planning and governance processes, not just as beneficiaries, but as partners, because when we shape cities with young people, we are not just building infrastructure. We are building trust, building resilience and building our shared future," he added.

Today marks the fifth day of WUF13 in Baku.

MENAFN21052026000187011040ID1111149564

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.