About UN-Habitat

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. UN-Habitat is the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat works with partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities.

It promotes urbanization as a positive transformative force for people and communities, reducing inequality, discrimination and poverty.

UN-Habitat’s Strategic Plan 2026 - 2029

UN-Habitat’s Strategic Plan for the period 2026 - 2029 (decision 2/6) was approved at the resumed second session of its Assembly in May 2025. The Plan responds to the global housing crisis by placing adequate housing, land and basic services at the centre of sustainable urbanization.

It aims to generate transformative impact by addressing poverty and inequality, climate change, and crises of natural and human origin through a people-centred and rights-based approach.

It calls for strengthened commitment and collaboration to ensure universal access to adequate, safe and affordable housing and to drive the transformation of informal settlements and slums.

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Architecture, Urban Planning, Development Studies, Public Administration, or similar discipline relevant to sustainable urbanization and international development or a related field is required.
• A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Establishment of working relationships with various humanitarian and development partners, capacity to work in a complex institutional environment involving government, international agencies, private sector and civil society organizations are required.
• Strong interest in issues concerning urban development is an advantage.
• Understanding of urban development paradigms and socio-political situation in Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia.
• International experience is an asset, especially within the United Nations System.