UN insists on human rights-based approach to Gaza, Syria recovery

The recovery of Gaza and Syria should be based not only on the physical reconstruction of destroyed territories, but above all on respect for human rights, including the rights to housing, land and security.

Report informs that Paula Gaviria, UN Special Rapporteur on the right to housing, said this during a panel discussion on "Housing as a Foundation for Crisis Recovery and Reconstruction" held as part of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku.

According to her, recovery should not be limited to the construction of new buildings and infrastructure, as it also involves restoring trust, social cohesion and the basic rights of millions of people affected by conflicts.

Gaviria emphasized that, without taking housing, land and property rights into account, reconstruction processes may only worsen existing inequality and lead to continued forced displacement.

"Recovery is not only about rebuilding cities, but also about restoring rights, trust and social cohesion. Without taking housing, land and property rights into account, reconstruction risks only prolonging forced displacement and deepening existing inequality. All actors involved in the recovery process, including the private sector and contractors, must adhere to a human rights-based approach," the special rapporteur said.