There have been moments in the history of the world where the importance of leadership has been paramount to the future of civilization. In the time of this global pandemic and growing voices demanding immediate attention addressing inequities in society, we are looking for inspirational leadership to provide a path for not only recovery but for a better and equitable future for all. It is our moment to create, encourage and give a voice to this leadership.

The World Urban Parks Congress Tirana 2020 focused on Leadership to create green cities - “Parks For All - The Courage to Grow a Greener Future”, which is particularly relevant in these challenging times where nature and equitable access to nature are often missing in our cities.

Three major themes for the Congress focused on:

1. Civic Leadership – political and governmental,

2. Community Leadership – inspirational mentors and emerging young leaders and

3. Evidence Based Leadership – research that underpins our understanding of the health and wellbeing benefits of Urban Green.

Read the full Tirana Statement>>

World Urban Parks recognizes the need for quality housing as well as equitable and fair access to quality open space. Parks can play a role in this effort. Housing and park advocates have long worked apart from, at times even at odds with, each other. Accessible parks are critical to quality affordable housing, and housing impacts and opportunities are essential considerations for park projects.

- Accessible parks near affordable housing
- Park development without displacement

World Urban Parks is committed to Parks and Housing for All.

https://bit.ly/3iC6Zvj

Urban October is an opportunity for everyone to be part of the conversation about the challenges and opportunities created by the fast rate of change in our cities and towns. Each October, everyone interested in sustainable urbanization from national and local governments to universities, NGOs and communities is encouraged to hold or participate in activities, events, and discussions.

The month begins with World Habitat Day on the first Monday of the month, 5 October in 2020, and ends with World Cities Day on 31 October. 

Today 55 per cent of the world’s population live in cities and towns and the number is growing every day. The United Nation’s Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Sustainable Development Goal 11 “to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable” puts sustainable urbanization at the centre of the global agendas for development. The adoption of the New Urban Agenda in 2016 has seen national and local governments embark on a transformative path towards making SDG11 a reality.

By engaging all stakeholders, cities can harness transformational change and ensure a better life for all in an urbanizing world.

Discover the full World Urban Parks Program here! This was put together by World Urban Parks and partners to participate in Urban October 2020!

Dear World Urban Parks Members,

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) for World Urban Parks will be held electronically from August 23rd to August 30th. The AGM will be held via an electronic survey so that all members will have a week to participate at their convenience. Check back on August 23rd for the link!

The AGM will give an opportunity for members to see and comment on:

• the annual report of World Urban Parks for the 2019/20 year
• the audited financial reports for the 2019/20 year
• the approval of Board Appointments
• the approval of the appointment of the auditor and terms of that appointment
• the proposed constitutional changes for Regional representation

A Statement from World Urban Parks: The importance of reconciliation - equity matters

The COVID19 global pandemic has highlighted the social, health and economic inequities in our communities.

World Urban Parks advocates and supports the power of parks, open spaces, and nature as essential resources for health and wellness and is working hard to ensure equitable access to quality parks and open spaces for ALL across the globe.

Public parks, trails, open spaces, and nature have served as places where people can find respite and seek peace and restoration. It is critical that we all address inequities in our society, that includes addressing inequities in access to parks and open spaces. World Urban Parks is committed to equal access for ALL.

Be part of the solution to ensure equitable access to quality parks and green space.

Read the full statement>>