World Cities Day : 31 October

World Cities Day is an annual United Nations observance celebrated on 31 October to highlight the importance of sustainable urban development and global urbanization challenges. The day, first marked in 2014, aims to promote cooperation among countries and stakeholders in making cities “inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable,” aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11.

Purpose and Origins

World Cities Day was established by UN General Assembly resolution 68/239 in December 2013 and is managed by UN-Habitat in collaboration with partner agencies such as UNESCO, UN-Water, and UNDP. Its roots trace back to Expo 2010 Shanghai, and it represents the conclusion of “Urban October,” a month dedicated to urban issues and sustainable development. The general ongoing theme is “Better City, Better Life,” with a new sub-theme selected each year to address particular urban challenges.

2025 Theme and Activities

For 2025, World Cities Day’s theme is “people-centred smart cities,” focusing on how digital innovation, AI, and data-driven decisions can improve lives and address shocks and crises in urban environments. The emphasis is on participatory governance, integrated urban systems, and evidence-driven planning to make cities more sustainable and inclusive.

- The 2025 global observance is being held in Bogota, Colombia, including high-level ceremonies, expert panels, and roundtables on digital innovation, adequate housing, and urban infrastructure.

- The WHO and other global partners are launching resources and convening forums to highlight the critical role of urban health and people-centred approaches in smart city transitions.

Significance

World Cities Day energizes awareness, advocacy, and action toward more effective and inclusive urban planning, with events organized by UN agencies, local governments, NGOs, and urban planners across the globe.

- It supports partnerships for urban sustainability, resilience, and health, and encourages the sharing of best practices and innovations.

- Cities worldwide engage through forums, roundtables, technical guidance launches, and participatory campaigns.

In summary, World Cities Day is a key annual event advancing global dialogue and cooperation for sustainable, people-focused urban growth.

What is the 2025 World Cities Day theme and host city

The 2025 World Cities Day theme is “People-Centred Smart Cities,” emphasizing the use of technology, data-driven decision-making, and artificial intelligence to improve urban life and make cities more inclusive, resilient, and focused on human well-being. The official host city for the global observance in 2025 is Bogotá, Colombia.