Expert Group Meeting on Inter-generational Human Rights Cities

Cities play a central role in shaping how people experience and exercise their human rights throughout their lives. Yet children, young people and older persons often face barriers to adequate housing, accessible services, safe public spaces and participation in local decision-making. While their needs and experiences differ, many of these challenges stem from shared gaps in urban planning and governance.

An intergenerational approach recognises these connections and promotes solidarity, shared spaces and meaningful participation across age groups. Building on human rights standards and existing age-friendly, child-friendly and youth-friendly city initiatives, it can help create urban environments where all generations can live, participate and thrive together.

This Expert Group Meeting, part of a series of discussions on human rights cities for all, will bring together national and local authorities, children, youth, older persons and their representative organisations, alongside activists, urban professionals, UN staff and experts. Building on discussions at the 13th World Urban Forum in May 2026, participants will explore approaches, policies and practices at different levels of governance, with particular attention to adequate housing and inclusive neighbourhoods.

The meeting will take place on 12 November 2026, over two sessions: 08:00–10:00 and 14:00–16:00, Central European Time (CET, UTC+1, Geneva time), totalling four hours.

Objectives

The meeting will identify key barriers and priority concerns affecting the rights of children, young people and older persons in cities. Through an exchange of good practices, participants will explore how rights-based urban policies can respond to their distinct needs while strengthening intergenerational inclusion, contributing to a shared agenda on human rights cities for all.

Expected outcomes

• A shared understanding of the challenges faced by children, young people and older persons in urban settings.
• Practical recommendations for strengthening intergenerational inclusion in urban policies, planning and governance.
• Stronger collaboration among authorities, communities and experts.
• A policy brief capturing key messages and recommendations to inform future discussions and initiatives.

Organisers and Partners

This Expert Group Meeting is co-organised by UN-Habitat, the Geneva Human Rights Hub, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.