Article type
Abstract
Background: Improved housing, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), along with active community engagement (CEI), are vital for advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in urban areas, especially among impoverished populations. Access to adequate housing lays the foundation for health and well-being, while clean water and proper sanitation contribute to disease prevention and the overall quality of life. The synergy between these elements is bolstered when communities actively participate in decision-making processes and advocate for their needs, driving sustainable urban development.
Objectives: This policy document synthesizes evidence on the expected effects of housing, WASH, and CEI among the urban poor, with a focus on gender dynamics. The objective is to provide policymakers, donors, and the public with insights into the challenges faced by the urban poor and the importance of targeted policies and investments.
Methods: The evidence was gathered through systematic reviews conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Rigorous searches were performed across eleven databases using a strategy tailored for slums, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and COVID-19. Independent screening and data extraction were conducted, with disagreements resolved through discussion. The reviews encompassed housing, WASH, CEI, and gender challenges among the urban poor in LMICs. Stakeholder consultations were held to disseminate findings and discuss action points in the context of COVID-19.
Results: This holistic approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also builds resilience and empowers marginalised urban communities, aligning with SDG principles. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of improved housing, clean water, sanitation, and CEI among urban poor communities. Adequate housing facilitated social distancing, while WASH facilities were crucial for hygiene and virus prevention. CEI played a key role in disseminating information and coordinating local responses.
Conclusions: These interconnected elements became lifelines for urban poor populations during crises, highlighting the significance of addressing fundamental needs for public health and resilience. The document calls for prioritizing public health and hygiene education programmes for urban poor communities, along with creating social safety net policies to provide financial assistance during crises and ensure access to housing, WASH facilities, and necessities.
Objectives: This policy document synthesizes evidence on the expected effects of housing, WASH, and CEI among the urban poor, with a focus on gender dynamics. The objective is to provide policymakers, donors, and the public with insights into the challenges faced by the urban poor and the importance of targeted policies and investments.
Methods: The evidence was gathered through systematic reviews conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Rigorous searches were performed across eleven databases using a strategy tailored for slums, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and COVID-19. Independent screening and data extraction were conducted, with disagreements resolved through discussion. The reviews encompassed housing, WASH, CEI, and gender challenges among the urban poor in LMICs. Stakeholder consultations were held to disseminate findings and discuss action points in the context of COVID-19.
Results: This holistic approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also builds resilience and empowers marginalised urban communities, aligning with SDG principles. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of improved housing, clean water, sanitation, and CEI among urban poor communities. Adequate housing facilitated social distancing, while WASH facilities were crucial for hygiene and virus prevention. CEI played a key role in disseminating information and coordinating local responses.
Conclusions: These interconnected elements became lifelines for urban poor populations during crises, highlighting the significance of addressing fundamental needs for public health and resilience. The document calls for prioritizing public health and hygiene education programmes for urban poor communities, along with creating social safety net policies to provide financial assistance during crises and ensure access to housing, WASH facilities, and necessities.