Bahar Muradova calls for greater role of women in urban planning

Women's participation in decision-making related to urban planning should be increased, Bahar Muradova, Chair of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, said at the Women's Assembly held within the framework of the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku.

Report quotes her as saying the equal participation of women in strategic planning and decision-making processes makes cities safer, more accessible, and more responsive to people's needs:

"Azerbaijan attaches special importance to strengthening cooperation among government agencies, the private sector, and civil society in order to develop this approach. Overall, women's participation in decision-making related to urban planning and climate policy should be further expanded. Building cities that respond to the needs of women means shaping a safer, more sustainable, and more humanistic future."

The committee chair also noted that safety, mobility, and access to social services should be systematically integrated into urban planning frameworks:

"International cooperation in promoting inclusive and sustainable models should be further strengthened. A people-oriented urban development model requires a shared commitment based on the principles of solidarity, equal opportunities, and sustainable progress. Azerbaijan is ready to support international cooperation and the exchange of experience in this area. We believe that the discussions held and the outcomes achieved within the framework of WUF13 will contribute to the development of more inclusive, sustainable, and people-oriented cities."