The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for urgent action to make housing safer, healthier and more accessible, warning that poor living conditions can expose urban populations to health risks throughout their lives.
In a statement marking World Cities Day 2026 on October 31, WHO said adequate housing is fundamental to health and well-being, urging governments, urban planners and public health authorities to treat housing policies as an essential part of health policy.
Under this year’s theme, *Regenerating the City: Adequate Housing for All*, the global health agency highlighted the health consequences of overcrowding, exposure to extreme heat and cold, air pollution, environmental hazards and inaccessible housing.
WHO noted that housing affects health across the life course, from supporting healthy childhood development to promoting independence and quality of life among older people.
The agency warned that rapid urban population growth is making access to adequate housing an increasingly defining challenge for cities worldwide.
Beyond providing shelter, healthy housing can protect populations from environmental and health risks while strengthening the resilience of communities and health systems.
WHO also highlighted the connection between housing and climate change, noting that well-designed homes can help communities cope with extreme temperatures and severe weather while improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions and creating healthier indoor environments.
The agency called for stronger collaboration between housing, urban development and public health sectors, arguing that decisions about where and how people live have direct consequences for population health.
Through its Housing and Health Guidelines, Global Guide for Action on Urban Health and urban governance initiatives, WHO is supporting governments and cities with evidence, policy guidance and practical tools to improve living conditions.
The agency further emphasised the importance of involving communities in decisions affecting their housing and neighbourhoods, particularly ensuring that vulnerable populations are not excluded from urban development.
As cities continue to expand, WHO urged governments to ensure that every person, regardless of age, income or circumstance, can access housing that protects their health, dignity and well-being.
