The BRICS Urbanisation Forum, a collaborative platform that brings together Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) to address key urban development issues, was this year hosted under the Chairship of the Republic of South Africa by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA). Held over two days, from 26 – 27 July 2023, in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, the theme of the BRICS Urbanisation Forum 2023 was ”Advancing Urban Resilience for Sustainable Cities and Towns for Future Generations”. It brought together representatives from the five countries to deliberate on the pressing and complex issues of advancing, strengthening, and building urban resilience while ensuring a just transition. The Forum facilitated insightful discussions, knowledge sharing on innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to address the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly urbanising regions.

The first BRICS Urbanisation Forum was launched in New Delhi, India, in February 2013 to address the growing trend of urbanisation worldwide. Over the years, the Forum has provided a platform for government representatives, policymakers, local authorities, and experts to engage on pressing and complex urban development issues.

This year’s BRICS Urbanisation Forum continues in that vein and anchors the role of cities in advancing, strengthening and building resilience by promoting sustainable development; improving the quality of life and well-being of communities; providing access to better education, healthcare, and social services; promoting inclusive growth; and putting in place effective governance systems, while improving institutional capacity. By so doing, the BRICS Urbanisation Forum serves as a platform for constructive dialogue and impactful urban transformation for the collective benefit of all member nations.