One of the most insightful moments for me at the ongoing #WUF13 was participating in a group discussion at the #WomenAssembly focused on the realities and challenges surrounding inclusive urban development and sustainable communities. Our discussions centred on three major barriers that continue to affect vulnerable populations, particularly women: • Limited support and participation from local and municipal governments • Inadequate infrastructure and institutional support systems. • Restricted access to sustainable and affordable financing opportunities We emphasized the urgent need for governments and relevant stakeholders to become more intentional in addressing the needs of women and vulnerable groups through stronger social protection systems, effective application of laws and policies, and improved land tenure security. A key point from our session was the importance of involving communities directly in decision-making processes. Sustainable urban development cannot succeed when the voices of the people most affected are excluded from planning and implementation. We also highlighted the need to foster affordable and accessible financing structures, especially for women, whose economic participation remains critical to achieving resilient and inclusive cities. Thanks to Ana Cristina Inglês for making the presentation on our behalf, Grace Ananda and others who contributed to the brainstorming. Conversations like these at WUF13 continue to reinforce the fact that the future of our cities must be built on equity, collaboration, inclusion, and shared #Collaboration #architecture #networking #sustainableurbandevelopment #UNWomen #UNHabitat
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