UN-Habitat Urges United Action on Global Housing Crisis

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has called for stronger cooperation among governments, businesses, civil society, development partners and local communities to tackle the growing global housing crisis. In its World Cities Report 2026, the agency said only coordinated and inclusive action can deliver safe, affordable and resilient homes for everyone.

The report warned that the global housing crisis has reached an alarming level. Around 3.4 billion people now lack adequate housing, while 44 per cent of households worldwide spend more than 30 per cent of their income on rent. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the figure rises to 55 per cent, showing the severe pressure many families face.

According to UN-Habitat, rising housing costs, limited supply, forced displacement, expanding informal settlements and the slow improvement of existing homes have combined to make the global housing crisis one of the world’s most difficult challenges. The organisation stressed that housing is more than shelter, describing it as a key driver of better health, education, economic opportunity and social inclusion.

The report urged governments to place housing at the centre of national development plans. It also encouraged policymakers to adopt broader housing strategies that go beyond building more homes. These should include housing affordability, secure land ownership, access to essential services, environmental sustainability, accessibility and suitable locations.

UN-Habitat also warned that rapid urban growth, rising land prices, inequality, climate change and the increasing treatment of housing as an investment are placing even greater strain on housing systems. It projected that cities will welcome another two billion residents by 2050, while climate-related disasters could destroy 167 million homes by 2040 if stronger action is not taken.

The report concluded that balanced policies, improved land governance, expanded rental housing, targeted financial support and closer collaboration across sectors are essential to solving the global housing crisis and creating stronger, more inclusive communities for future generations.

What practical steps should governments take to make decent housing more affordable for ordinary citizens?