The thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) takes place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 17 to 22 May 2026. The theme of WUF13 is: Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities.
How innovative land governance tools and land‑based financing unlock adequate housing and transform informal settlements This session will explore how innovative land governance tools and land-based financing solutions can unlock adequate housing and drive the transformation of informal settlements in rapidly urbanizing contexts. The session positions secure land tenure, effective land management and people centred land tools as key enablers of inclusive, affordable and sustainable housing. Drawing on practical experiences from cities and countries, the session will highlight selected Global Land Tool Network (GLTN) tools such as Fit for Purpose Land Administration, Social Tenure Domain Model (STDM), Participatory and Inclusive Land Readjustment (PILaR), and Tenure Responsive Land Use Planning. These tools will be showcased as part of broader institutional, policy and governance reforms that have proven scalable and transformative. The discussion will also highlight land-based financing and land value capture as mechanisms to mobilize resources for housing, infrastructure, and services, while ensuring equity and inclusion. A special spotlight will be given to the State of African Cities Report 2026, highlighting new evidence on land-based financing for housing and marking its launch. The session will feature highlights of land tools, reflections on case studies and audience interaction. It aims to generate practical insights and policy relevant messages for national and local governments, practitioners and partners seeking to advance people centred and rights-based housing solutions by leveraging the economic, social and ecological value of land. Partner: Global Land Tool Network Partners, particularly Kadaster, SDI, Huairou Commission, Namibia University of Science and Technology, Development Workshop, Habitat For Humanity Moderator: Huairou Commission Speakers: Kadaster, Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Lusaka City Council, Development Workshop, SDI, Habitat for Humanity
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