More than half of the world's population is now living in cities and this trend is accelerating. In many developing country cities where most of this urban growth is occurring there is scarcity in housing opportunities. The reasons vary and range from dysfunctional housing markets, price-to-income ratios that make housing unaffordable, constraints in the supply of land, building materials and housing finance, among others. The effects however are very similar and a significant proportion of the urban population in many developing countries is forced to seek informal land and housing solutions. This form of social exclusion has deep and pervasive impacts on the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals, including health, education and gender equality. It also affects economic productivity and ultimately the competitiveness of nations.

While access to decent and affordable housing depends to a very large extent on public policies on land, construction, market regulation and housing finance, the provision of housing involves a multitude of actors. The keynote address provides an overview of different approaches to social housing provision and highlights the respective roles of public, private and community actors and will help to inform more effective housing policies and strategies worldwide.

Co-organiser :