Mukhtar Babayev: Climate migration, military conflicts complicate urban planning

The rise of climate migration and armed conflict is increasing pressure on cities and complicating urban planning, Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijani presidential envoy on climate issues and the president of COP29, said at an event at WUF13, Report informs.

According to him, rapid urbanization is largely linked to wars, food crises, and climate change.

He noted that over the next 20 years, approximately 260 million people will be forced to relocate within their own countries due to climate factors.

Babayev emphasized that mass migration places additional strain on infrastructure and hinders the planned development of cities.

He also drew attention to the rise in global military spending. According to him, $2.7 trillion will have been spent on wars and weapons in 2024, reducing funding for climate, social, and humanitarian programs.

"Today, it is crucial to consolidate the efforts of all countries to reduce the pressure on cities while simultaneously ensuring sound development planning," Babayev added.