Cairo, 6 November 2024
An Inclusive Dialogue on Urban-Rural LinkagesOn November 6, 2024, during the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, UN-Habitat unveiled key findings from the Global Trends and Insights of Urban-Rural Linkages (URL) Report. This session sparked engaging discussions on fostering territorial cohesion and inclusive growth.
Attended by policymakers, researchers, and local leaders, the event emphasized how strong urban-rural connections improve livelihoods and promote balanced territorial development.
Understanding urban-rural linkages
The URL Report presentation revealed global trends and evolving challenges. It drew insights from 21 surveyed countries, shedding light on shared issues that transcend political and geographic boundaries. Key themes included partnerships, youth involvement, and governance in enhancing urban-rural connections.
Transitioning between urban and rural areas, participants highlighted the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration. Youth involvement emerged as a critical factor in addressing challenges and opportunities, given their role as agents of change in these transitions.
Collaborative efforts for territorial cohesion
The session spotlighted the importance of partnerships and governance. Participants discussed strategies to include civil society organizations and empower youth in shaping inclusive policies. They also explored innovative approaches to address shared challenges such as resource access, migration, and climate resilience.
UN-Habitat reaffirmed its commitment to fostering dialogue and action through this report. By emphasizing collaboration across all governance levels, the initiative aims to create more cohesive systems that benefit both urban and rural communities.
Accessible insights for stakeholders
UN-Habitat introduced the Key Highlights booklet as an accessible resource for stakeholders. This booklet offers guidance for developing policies that promote resilience, inclusivity, and balance in urban-rural dynamics. It underscores the importance of shared responsibility in bridging divides and achieving equitable growth.
The forthcoming full report will provide actionable recommendations and best practices. This comprehensive resource is designed to inspire strategic actions for strengthening urban-rural linkages globally.
Moving toward a sustainable future
As the global community pursues sustainable development goals, bridging the urban-rural divide remains essential. Inclusive growth relies on robust connections between cities and rural areas. By addressing shared challenges and promoting collaboration, stakeholders can create a more equitable and resilient future.
Explore Further:
This collaborative effort serves as a step forward in fostering territorial cohesion, ensuring that urban and rural communities thrive together.
