Since 2019, World Cities Day has been celebrated annually by UNESCO through its Cities Platform.
By 2050, it is projected that cities will accommodate 70% of the world’s population, confronting unprecedented challenges in the context of climate change. By 2030, an estimated 60% of people will reside in urban areas, with up to 60% of urban dwellers under the age of 18. Despite progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, cities, particularly in the Global South, continue to struggle with poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, making urgent action necessary.
Experts stress the importance of involving young people in urban decision-making to harness their creativity and foster sustainable development. World Cities Day 2024, with the theme “Youth Climate Changemakers: Catalysing Local Action for Urban Sustainability,” aims to highlight the crucial role of local governments and young people in tackling urban climate challenges. The event will showcase youth-proposed innovative ideas and explore ways to turn these into concrete actions.
International initiatives such as the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations seek to prioritise youth voices in shaping sustainable urban environments. The upcoming Summit of the Future presents an opportunity to incorporate youth perspectives into global policy and ensure that the multilateral system addresses the needs of younger generations.
Proposed actions include establishing youth councils, integrating youth representatives into local governments, and maintaining ongoing dialogue between young people and policymakers. These efforts aim to create cities that are not only sustainable and resilient but also reflective of the diverse voices and needs of all inhabitants, both present and future.
