October 31, World Cities Day Today is World Cities Day (WCD). While many people will read or hear about the importance of commemorating this day, few may know exactly what it celebrates. Let's delve into some history. In 2013, the United Nations established WCD with the aim of fostering cooperation among countries to address the challenges posed by urbanism and contribute to … [Read more...] about IDB Mayors Forum 2022: four lessons to address climate change in cities
Urban Development and Housing
The caregiving crisis in informal settlements
“I'm a hairdresser (...) but I need to take care of my aunt [who has a severe disability], of my daughter [who's only 12 years old] and the house” says Lorena, from Río Paraná, in Corrientes, Argentina. Just like many other women in the region, Lorena must balance her professional life with housework and caregiving responsibilities. These responsibilities are particularly … [Read more...] about The caregiving crisis in informal settlements
Why is it necessary to finance climate-resilient housing?
Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is the second region in the world most exposed to natural disasters and the effects of climate change. Adapting to them is an urgent need for everyone, and very special for cities, where more than 80% of the population lives. Having the appropriate urban infrastructure for natural phenomena is one of the best ways to achieve this … [Read more...] about Why is it necessary to finance climate-resilient housing?
How to improve the access of migrants, refugees, and displaced people to health?
Every year on June 20, the world celebrates World Refugee Day to honor refugees and displaced people around the world. This year, the focus will be on the right to seek protection. Every person in the world has the right to seek protection, no matter who they are, where they come from or when they have had to flee, including the protection of their health needs. Health is a … [Read more...] about How to improve the access of migrants, refugees, and displaced people to health?
Wood as a housing construction material: what are its benefits?
Wood has been one of the most used building materials since the beginning of history. Although the use of steel, concrete or iron has brought significant advances to construction, wood has never lost its popularity. In fact, the number of wooden buildings around the world may surprise many readers. Did you know that countries such as Japan, Scotland or the United States are … [Read more...] about Wood as a housing construction material: what are its benefits?