Civic participation in, and the normative framework of global urban policy have evolved since 1976, but not always progressively.

• How has civil society contributed to the Habitat Agenda process and content?

• Is this dynamic advancing or regressing since 1976 …since 1996?

• How do civil organizations perceive this dynamic unfolding toward 2016?

• What does civil society hope to contribute to, and take from Habitat III in 2016?

To begin answering these timely questions, HIC-HLRN organized a networking event at WUF 7, 11 April 2014, at Medellín, Colombia. HIC-HLRN has just released the report to the public.

This event reflected on that dynamic and channeled civil society perspectives on procedure and content issues toward Habitat III. A panel traced the evolution of civil society relations with the serial Habitat Agendas, first, with a view from HIC president emeritus and veteran of Habitats I and II Enrique Ortíz. Then panelists presented current Habitat III expectations as they related to the post-2015 Development process, including a forward-looking prospective from engaged youth.

The inclusive participant discussion that ensued reflects civil society visions and demands for Habitat III, in order to optimize the constructive engagement and norms established through previous Habitat Agendas. Participants presented their expectations and proposals, including proposals for mechanisms of CSO engagement in, and optimal outcomes from the Habitat III process. These proposals covered some of the most important choices facing Habitat III partners to ensure a progressive Habitat III that improves—not diminishes—the Habitat Agenda in 2016 and forms a common ground for maintaining socially equitable and environmentally sound habitats over the coming decades.

Download the Networking Event report