UN-HABITAT, established in 1978, is entrusted with the mission of promoting socially and environmentally sustainable urbanisation with the ultimate aim of guaranteeing the right to decent housing for all.

UN-HABITAT works in close cooperation with local authorities, including municipalities, provinces and regions, thanks in particular to its special relationship with UNACLA, the United Nations Advisory Committee on Local Authorities. The latter is composed of mayors and representatives of local authority umbrella organisations chosen by the Director-General of UN-HABITAT on the basis of their expertise and commitment to implementing the United Nations agenda on human settlements.