Baku, Azerbaijan, 17-20 May 2026——The 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), was held in Baku, Azerbaijan. Representing China, the Urban Planning & Design Institute of Shenzhen (UPDIS), along with six other Chinese planning institutes under the umbrella of Urban Planning Society of China (UPSC), participated in WUF13. Leveraging UPSC's special “70 Years of Urban Planning” showcase, the Chinese delegation highlighted the work and expertise of participating institutions, where UPDIS also emphasized Shenzhen's innovative urban development practices and efforts to expand international collaboration.
Roundtable Dialogue Explores Solutions for Livable Cities
On the morning of 19 May, UPDIS Chairwoman, Yu Lu, joined a roundtable discussion hosted by l' Institut Paris Region and supported by the Metropolis Think Tank Alliance (MeTTA), titled “Housing the Middle Class in Global Metropolises: A Common Crisis, Divergent Solutions.” Held at the French Pavilion, the discussion also invited representatives from the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI), Georgia's Spatial and Urban Development Agency.
Yu Lu outlined Shenzhen's approach to addressing urban housing challenges and improving livability over the years. She emphasized three key strategies to tackle housing challenges by middle-income groups common to global megacities:
1. Upgrading Urban Villages – Improving affordable housing communities while balancing cost and living quality.
2. Repurposing Idle Commercial Spaces – Converting underutilized office and commercial properties into subsidized rental housing in central districts.
3. Talent Housing Policies – Expanding access to policy-driven housing for young professionals, strengthening the city's attractiveness and economic vitality.
Yu advocated for greater international knowledge sharing, emphasizing that flexible and effective housing systems are essential to meet evolving population and urban needs worldwide.
UPDIS Chairwoman Yu Lu shares at Roundtable Dialogue
UPDIS Contributes to Global Collaboration
On the afternoon of the same day, UPDIS hosted a dedicated showcase at the UPSC Pavilion. During the session, Wang Shengjun, Chief Economist of China's Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and Shi Nan, Executive Vice President and Secretary-General of Urban Planning Society of China recognized the progress made by Chinese planning institutes' “Go Global” efforts. Kong Fanchang, Deputy Director General of Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality, also visited UPDIS. Kong commended the significant contributions of UPDIS and other Shenzhen-based institutions in advancing international engagement and exchanges.
UPDIS with Wang Shengjun (Center), Chief Economist of China's Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and Shi Nan (4th from left), Executive Vice President and Secretary-General of Urban Planning Society of China
UPDIS with Kong Fanchang, Deputy Director General of Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality
During the session, UPDIS introduced visiting delegations to its institutional profile, core competencies, and domestic, national, and international projects. Discussions centered on themes such as safe and resilient communities, China's urban planning experience, sustainable development, and smart city initiatives, setting stage for future potential collaboration.
Delegation from Dubai Municipality Visits UPDIS team
Active Participation Across WUF13 Events
Throughout WUF13, UPDIS actively engaged in parallel events, including “Land Value for All: Advancing Housing Equality in African Cities” exchanging insights with international experts on housing challenges and global best practices.
WUF13 Event: Land Value for All: Advancing Housing Equality in African Cities
UPDIS also visited government and institutional pavilions of Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, France, Kenya, and Angola, as well as research institutes such as the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI) and the Pattern Institute. Delegates from UN-Habitat, Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi's Al Ain City Municipality, Turkeye's Gümüşhacıköy Belediyesi Government and the Cameroon Young Entrepreneurs Association (AJEC) also visited UPDIS' space.
UPDIS at Kenya Pavilion
UPDIS at Angola Pavilion
Positioned at the forefront of global urban governance exchange, Chinese urban planning institutions are accelerating the transition from learning from international experience to exporting their expertise worldwide. UPDIS continues to leverage Shenzhen's innovative urban practices, actively participate in international dialogue, and promote experience sharing and practical collaboration in urban development and governance.
Team UPDIS at WUF13
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