From Policy to people: the role of Architecture

This session brings together leading international institutions to reflect on the role of urbanisation in addressing today’s global challenges.

At a time marked by climate disruption, growing inequalities, and rapid urban growth, cities are both at the centre of the problem and key to its resolution.

Across the agendas of the institutions, a shared understanding is emerging: the quality of the built environment is fundamental to achieving sustainable, inclusive and healthy societies. In this context, the role of architects becomes critical, not only as designers, but as mediators between policy, private interests and society.

Bringing together perspectives from the UN system, OECD and the UIA, the session will explore, through examples, how institutional cooperation can better support more responsible urban environments, translating global commitments into place-based responses that improve wellbeing and quality of life across diverse geographies.