Context:
In 2023, World Habitat Day (WHD), was celebrated on 2nd October. This annual global observance has come a long way focusing on the evolution of urban development, sustainability, and the role of cities in economic growth.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
World Habitat Day:
- The United Nations has designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day.
- Its purpose is to reflect on the state of our habitats and recognize the basic right of all individuals to have adequate shelter.
- The day serves as a reminder that we all have the power and responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns.
Origin:
- World Habitat Day’s origins can be traced back to Nairobi, Kenya, in 1986.
- The first celebration’s theme was ‘Shelter is my Right,’ focusing on addressing the issue of inadequate shelter in cities.
Theme 2023:
- The theme for 2023 is “Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of growth and recovery.”
- It comes in a challenging year for urban economies, marked by declining global economic growth, making it one of the weakest growth periods since 2001. This is in addition to the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis in 2020 and the global financial crisis in 2009.
