Lebanon is one of the most urbanized countries in the Arab region. The lack of planning regulations and cross-sectoral master plans hinders the absorption capacity of the growing urban population and the ability to meet its social, economic, environmental and demographic needs. A National Urban Forum (NUF) of Lebanon, co-organized by ESCWA and UN-Habitat, is being held 23-24 March 2022 under the patronage of Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
The overall objective of Lebanon's first NUF is to discuss the increasing urban challenges amid the multiple ongoing crises in Lebanon. During the NUF, four reports will be launched:
- ESCWA and UN-Habitat’s 'State of the Lebanese Cities Report';
- UN-Habitat’s 'Guide on Mainstreaming Transport and Mobility in Lebanon’s National Urban Policy';
- UN-Habitat’s 'Guide on Mainstreaming Housing in Lebanon’s National Urban Policy';
- UN-Habitat’s 'Lebanon’s National Urban Policy Synthesis Report: Intersection of Housing and Transport'.
The two-day event is being livestreamed to the public and features thematic sessions on housing, energy and transport. Stakeholders are discussing the priorities outlined in UN-Habitat’s housing and transport guides and aim to outline possible immediate-term solutions to mitigate emerging needs until policy formulation advances.
Amman, Jordan
