Julie Perkins: Local governments key to solving global issues

City and regional administrations play a critical role in solving global problems, Julie Perkins, Head of the Secretariat at the Global Water Operators' Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA) of the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), told Report.

Perkins called WUF "the most interesting meeting place in the world for people working with cities." "The forum is an open platform where diverse perspectives, discussions, and initiatives come together. The discussions held here are extremely important in terms of the processes taking place in the world today. City, local, and regional governance structures play a critical role, particularly in addressing the sustainability challenges we currently face."

The forum participant emphasized the importance of developing not only construction but also basic urban services to address the housing crisis: "This includes waste management, water and sewage services, mobility, and public transportation. The organizations that provide these services play a crucial role in creating housing provision for everyone. I hope that the cities of the future will be very comfortable to live in. Cities that have room for everyone and develop in harmony with nature will be formed."