Basic urban services

Equitable access to basic urban services, including water, sanitation, energy, mobility, and waste management, are essential to public health, economic opportunity, and sustainable urban development. Yet access remains deeply unequal within and between cities. In 2024, 2.2 billion people lacked safely managed drinking water,3.4 billion were without adequate sanitation, and 1.7 billion did not have basic hygiene servicesat home.

Rapid urbanization, climate change, and persistent crises are placing increased pressure on urban infrastructures and local institutions. Informal growth often outpaces planning and investment capacities, while limited municipal finance, fragmented governance, and data gaps constrain inclusive and resilient service delivery.

Without integrated, inclusive, people-centred, and climate-responsive approaches, service deficits will deepen urban inequalities and undermine resilience, leaving the most vulnerable communities further behind.

UNITAC supports local authorities in strengthening basic urban service delivery through digital innovation, data-driven solutions, and people-centred approaches. By leveraging digital tools, local data, and strategic partnerships, UNITAC helps cities identify service gaps, improve planning, and allocate resources more effectively — particularly in underserved communities.

Through co-development and capacity building, UNITAC enables municipalities to implement inclusive, people-centred and climate-responsive service systems. By enhancing local governance, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making, UNITAC contributes to more equitable, resilient, and sustainable access to basic urban services.

Access the PDF about UNITAC's work on basic urban services.