Baku: Hosting the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku was of significant importance for advancing global discussions on the future of cities, Turkish political expert Esma Zdasli said in an interview with APA.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, cities today are no longer merely physical spaces where people live. They have become centers of economic transformation, environmental sustainability, technological advancement, and social change. Esma Zdasli emphasized that issues related to the future of cities have become part of a shared global agenda, making the event in Baku extremely important.
Zdasli noted that Baku’s hosting of such a large-scale international event demonstrated Azerbaijan’s capacity and growing reputation in organizing major international gatherings. The event brought together government representatives, academics, local authorities, urban planning professionals, and international organizations from different countries on a single platform.
The diversit
y of participants highlighted the necessity of addressing challenges related to the future of cities through a multidimensional approach. Discussions at the forum extended beyond technical issues to topics affecting people’s daily lives, such as social resilience, environmental sustainability, and quality of life, contributing to global cooperation and collective thinking.
Describing WUF13 as a key event showcasing Azerbaijan’s role on international platforms, Zdasli noted Baku’s emergence as an attractive center for regional and international gatherings. These events reflect a country’s physical infrastructure, diplomatic capabilities, organizational skills, and capacity to build international trust.
The themes highlighted during the forum reflected global concerns regarding the future of cities, including climate change, rapid urbanization, energy efficiency, environmental pressures, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and digital transformation. Zdasli emphasized that the future of cities cannot be assess
ed solely through physical growth but requires a people-centered approach.
Throughout the forum, the concept of people-centered urban planning remained a major focus. Important messages were delivered about evaluating cities not only on economic indicators but also on social inclusion, accessibility, safety, and environmental balance. The growing connection between technology and urban governance was another key discussion topic.
Baku has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years in areas such as transport infrastructure, urban aesthetics, and public space development. The city balances modernization with preserving historical and cultural heritage, serving as an example for international participants.
One of the most significant outcomes of WUF13 was demonstrating that urban planning is no longer solely the responsibility of local authorities. It has become a multifaceted field linked to the economy, environment, technology, and human life. Forums like WUF13 are platforms where common visions
are shaped and new cooperation opportunities emerge.
The principles of sustainable development, sustainable cities, and people-centered planning will become even more relevant in the years ahead. WUF13 will be remembered for its significant contribution to global discussions in this area.