World Habitat Day: All you need to know

World Habitat Day is observed on every first Monday of October to raise awareness amongst people globally about the state of towns and cities.

It is intended to remind the world that everyone has the power and responsibility to shape the future of our surroundings.

According to  UN, In 1985 the United Nations designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

An important highlight of the day is the “Habitat Scroll of Honour” award, which was launched by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHSP) in 1989.

World Habitat Day 2020 theme is ‘Housing For All — A Better Urban Future’.

UN says, Covid-19 has spread in areas where people lack adequate housing, and are faced with inequalities and poverty. Residents in these areas are also often not recognized by the authorities or protected and face the risk of being evicted and relocated, particularly in times of crisis.

Housing is a human right and a catalyst for all other fundamental rights. It is the only way to ensure the “Right to the City for All”.