News 21 May 2026 IOM Calls for Inclusive Urban Planning at World Urban Forum

Baku, 21 May 2026 - Cities become stronger and more inclusive when migrants and displaced people are considered in housing policy, urban planning, and recovery efforts. This was the message from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) at the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), the United Nations' main meeting on sustainable cities.

According to IOM's World Migration Report 2026, displacement reached record levels by the end of 2025, with more than 120 million people forced to leave their homes. Most displaced people now live in cities or nearby areas, where housing and basic services are often difficult to access.

Housing challenges are not limited to displacement. Around three billion people worldwide live in poor housing conditions, including over 1.1 billion people in informal settlements and more than 300 million people without stable shelter.

At the World Urban Forum, which focused on "Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities," IOM highlighted the importance of including migrants and displaced people in housing and urban planning. This helps ensure that cities are designed in ways that are safe, fair, and workable for everyone.

"Migration is already shaping the urban future. Today, 58 per cent of the world's population is living in cities and towns, while displacement is becoming increasingly urban," said IOM Deputy Director General Ugochi Daniels. "When migrants are included in planning, they contribute skills, ideas, and energy that help cities grow and adapt."

Climate change is also increasing movement into cities, as more people are forced to relocate after floods, droughts, and other impacts. Planning for these changes in advance can help cities reduce risks and improve living conditions for both new arrivals and long-term residents. Migrants and displaced people are not only seeking safety and support - they also contribute to the social and economic life of cities as workers, entrepreneurs, consumers, and community members. Including them in urban planning and decision-making helps strengthen recovery efforts, support long-term solutions, and foster more inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.

At WUF13, IOM presented practical approaches that connect emergency support with longer-term city development. This includes helping with housing repair and rebuilding, improving local services, supporting community ties, and strengthening local systems. Support ranges from temporary shelter to longer-term housing solutions.

As host of the Forum, Azerbaijan shared its experience of rebuilding and supporting return to areas affected by conflict. By 2030, the country plans to invest around AZN 30 billion (about USD 17.6 billion) in restoring housing, infrastructure, and services to support return and reintegration.

"As cities continue to grow and change, inclusion matters," added DDG Daniels. "Housing and services that reflect the needs of migrants, displaced people, and host communities help create safer and more stable cities where everyone can live with dignity."

For more information, please visit IOM's Media Centre.