2012 (EN)

The United Nations has designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day. This year, the day will be celebrated on 1 October 2012.
UN-Habitat has chosen the theme Changing Cities, Building Opportunities because cities are the engines of growth. It is in the cities that many realize their dreams of a better life. Even if this is not achieved, still many more leave the rural areas and flock to the cities for no other reason than the promise of a better future and prosperity.

This they achieve by either getting jobs or by starting businesses which at one point not only provide for the owners but even other employees thus creating jobs.
Under this theme, UN-Habitat wants to underscore the need to plan our cities better because as has also been stated, unplanned growth of cities lead to chaotic development and urban sprawl. When well planned, cities can continue to afford opportunities to both the current and future residents. This dovetails with the new UN-Habitat campaign, I am a city changer which seeks to involve all in making their cities a better place to live.

 

Web Link

The Secretary-General Message on World Habitat Day ENGFR

Message of the Executive Director Dr. Joan Clos ENGESP

Video 1

Video 2