The Obama Administration and UN-HABITAT will co-host the global celebrations of World Habitat Day in Washington, DC on October 5, 2009, UN-HABITAT reported May 21.
World Habitat Day is celebrated annually on the first Monday in October.
The idea is to reflect on the state of towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.
This year will focus on the theme of improved urban planning so that cities can manage and reduce the impacts of climate disruption, the economic crisis and urban poverty around the world.
A group of 15 policy institutes, non-governmental organisations, and foundations will join the US Department for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and UN-HABITAT in organising a number of high-level events on the occasion.
The Cities Alliance is working closely with USAID, HUD, and UN-HABITAT on a number of parallel activities designed to reinforce the theme and raise the profile of cities and slums within the United States.
Further information on these activities and other preparations for World Habitat Day celebrations will be communicated to all as they develop.
