The United Nations designated the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It also reminds us we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns. The purpose of World Habitat Day is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns. World Habitat Day was established in 1985 by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 40/202, and was first celebrated in 1986. World Habitat Day 2025 On 6 October 2025, the Global Observance of World Habitat Day will be linked to, urban crisis response. The theme will focus on addressing multiple crises affecting urban areas, including climate and conflicts that are contributing to inequality, and promote existing tools and approaches to effective crisis response. An increasing number of people are driven from their homes by crises such as conflict, political instability, climate change and economic hardship. A record 122 million people are forcibly displaced . In an increasingly urbanizing world, displacement is becoming an urban phenomenon. Over 60% of internally displaced persons, refugees, and migrants are seeking refuge in cities, putting pressure on local systems. This is accelerating urban growth while changing territories significantly. Objectives In line with UN-Habitat’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, World Habitat Day will: Share urban and territorial development strategies for durable solutions to displacement. Recognize the central role of local governments in championing solutions and the need for multi-level governance. Highlight social cohesion and inclusive governance as key enablers of urban integration of displaced populations. Consider the critical role of housing, land and basic services for sustainable solutions for displacement. Showcase urban practices that have successfully achieved social cohesion, recovery and integration for displacement of affected communities. Source : UN Habitat