World Habitat Day tomorrow: Why 'urban crisis response' is the focus this year
Urban October is an opportunity for everyone to be part of the conversation about the challenges and opportunities created by the fast rate of change in our cities and towns, and each October, everyone interested in sustainable urbanisation, from national and local governments to universities, NGOs and communities, is encouraged to hold or participate in activities, events, and discussions
World Habitat Day, observed globally on the first Monday of October every year, falls on tomorrow (6 October) this year, with the United Nations choosing the theme "Urban Crisis Response".
In Bangladesh, this theme holds exceptional significance as the country navigates a complex blend of demographic pressures, climate threats, and infrastructure challenges in its rapidly expanding urban centres.
Established by the United Nations in 1985, World Habitat Day is an annual day dedicated to reflecting on the state of the world's towns and cities and recognising the basic right of all people to adequate shelter. The inaugural celebration took place in 1986 under the theme "Shelter is My Right".
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Why "Urban Crisis Response"?
The theme, "Urban Crisis Response," is chosen to focus on addressing the multiple, compounding crises that are currently destabilising urban areas worldwide. These include climate crises, such as escalating risks from floods, heatwaves, and cyclones, particularly in low-lying, densely populated areas like Dhaka and Chattogram.
Conflicts and inequality also play a significant role, as crises often deepen existing disparities, affecting access to housing, healthcare, and services for the most vulnerable populations, especially those in informal settlements.
Additionally, economic shocks, including rapid economic changes and inflation, further impact the affordability of housing and essential services. The UN's goal is to promote tools and approaches for effective and resilient crisis response in urban settings.
Urban October is an opportunity for everyone to be part of the conversation about the challenges and opportunities created by the fast rate of change in our cities and towns. Each October, everyone interested in sustainable urbanisation from national and local governments to universities, NGOs and communities is encouraged to hold or participate in activities, events, and discussions, according to the Urban October platform of the UN.
The month begins with World Habitat Day, and ends with World Cities Day on 31 October. Activities take place on those specific days or at any time during the month.
The UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour award is one of the highlights of the World Habitat Day global observance. The award, a plaque engraved with the name of the winner, is presented to the selected winners during the global observance.
Bangladesh's response actions
The Ministry of Housing and Public Works is leading the observance in Bangladesh, highlighting the national focus on addressing these issues. A main discussion will be held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, featuring its Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, and the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis, underscoring the need for coordinated, multi-sectoral solutions.
Academic papers presented will focus on earthquake preparedness, utilising inclusive public open spaces to enhance community resilience, and assessing failures and successes in low-cost housing initiatives for sustainable urban development in informal settlements.
The day also kicks off "Urban October," encouraging governments, NGOs, and communities to dedicate the entire month to events and discussions focused on sustainable urbanisation challenges and opportunities.
For Bangladesh, where urbanisation is rapidly outpacing planning and services, "Urban Crisis Response" directly addresses vulnerabilities ranging from landslides in hilly areas to severe waterlogging. The national focus aims to move beyond temporary fixes toward sustainable, long-term resilience.
Tomorrow morning, a colourful procession will be brought out from Zia Udyan at 8:30am and conclude at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center where an exhibition is also scheduled to be held in the lobby on tomorrow and the day after.
Various offices and departments under the housing ministry, including Rehab, Rajuk and the Department of Architecture, will display products and services in the housing and construction sector.
Three articles titled "Resilient Community Oasis: Inclusive Public Open Spaces for Earthquake Preparedness by Dr Sudipti Biswas, professor, MIST; An Assessment of Informal Settlement and Low-Cost Housing Intiatives in Bangladesh: Failures, Success, Factors and a Framework for Sustainable Urban Development by Uswatun Mahera Khushi, Board member, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University and Journey toward housing solutions amid the urban crisis by the country director of Habitat for Humanity, will be presented.
The day will be celebrated at all divisions and district levels. A souvenir will be published and banners, posters and festoons will be displayed at important places.
