2026 marks a key milestone for our Coalition:
50 years of collective struggle, solidarity, and achievements.
In 1976, at the first United Nations Conference on Human Settlements in Vancouver, a group of activists, researchers and civil society organisations decided that the housing crisis could not be solved without the people it affected most.
From that conviction, Habitat International Coalition was born, a global network committed to defending housing and land rights through advocacy, research and community action.
We are celebrating throughout 2026!
Discover how we are marking this milestone through a series of key actions, co-created and decided hand-in-hand with our Members through our Anniversary Celebration Working Group. Stay tuned!
HIC In-Person Celebration at WUF 13 – Baku, Azerbaijan
The World Urban Forum 13 hosted a moving in-person celebration for HIC’s 50th anniversary, bringing together foundational Members and allies. Sharing cherished memories and goals for the future, a powerful reminder of HIC’s core essence: a unique coalition of organizations, grassroots movements, and individuals fighting for human rights related to habitat.
A) Gallery of Members’ Practices
An online repository highlighting HIC Members’ concrete initiatives, struggles & achievements across regions, along HIC’s four thematic areas between 2016 and 2026.
How? Two opportunities to submit your practice to HIC GS via the google form:
- Feb ‘26
- Jul ‘26
Coming soon!
B) Member Gatherings
HIC is bringing Members together for a milestone series of discussions, reflecting on our journey and shaping our collective future.
Info about days coming soon. Explore the topics to be discussed in these upcoming events:
1. HIC Origins & Historical Trajectory
An open space to look back at our roots, celebrating the foundations that built our coalition.
4. Then & Now: What’s Changed?
A critical reflection on the evolution of habitat rights, analyzing our current challenges against past struggles.
2. Building Collective Power & Cross-Regional Action
An in-person strategic gathering focused on strengthening solidarity and regional coordination.
5. HIC General Assembly
Our highest democratic decision-making space, where we will consolidate our year-long celebrations and map out the road ahead.
3. Anniversary Side-Event at WUF13
A high-profile policy space to showcase HIC’s impact and vision on the global stage at the World Urban Forum.
C) Our Journey, Told by Our Members: “Voices of HIC @ 50”
Discover a special multimedia series featuring video interviews and written contributions from our diverse network.
HIC Members share their unique voices, lived experiences, and reflections on their journeys since joining the coalition—highlighting how we have grown and fought for habitat rights together.
From Self-Help to Urban Justice: A Practice in Housing Rights and Participatory Land Development
Allan Cain – a profile This narrative reflects Allan Cain’s long-standing commitment to advancing housing and land rights through participatory, incremental, and people-centred approaches. Beginning with the co-founding of Development [...]
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More testimonies coming soon
Celebrate with Us: Use the HIC at 50 Logo
In honor of our 50th anniversary, we invite all Members, allies, and partners to use the special HIC at 50 logo in their communications, event materials, and publications. Help us highlight this incredible milestone across our global coalition!