"Istanbul + 5" explores effects of conflict and natural disasters on shelter

The negative effects of conflict and natural disasters on housing and settlement efforts were among the many issues raised today as the General Assembly's special session held its third and final day of work.

The session, also known as "Istanbul + 5," is reviewing the progress made since the 1996 Second United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II) in Istanbul, Turkey. At that conference, governments pledged to ensure adequate shelter for all and to develop safe, healthy, equitable and productive human settlements.

The three-day meeting is also seeking to formulate new initiatives to help implement the Habitat Agenda, the plan of action adopted at the 1996 conference.

Over 50 speakers - from governmental and non-governmental delegations - were scheduled to take part in the general debate today. At the conclusion of its session, the meeting expected to adopt a final document that will chart the work ahead in ensuring adequate housing for all.