The basis of the Plan is UN-Habitat’s new vision of “a better quality of life for all in an urbanizing world”. This vision is encapsulated in the Plan’s 4 domains of change namely:

1. Reduced spatial inequality and poverty in communities across the urban-rural continuum
2. Enhanced shared prosperity of cities and regions
3. Strengthened climate action and improved urban environment
4. Effective urban crisis prevention and response

The Strategic Plan for 2020–2023 repositions UN-Habitat as a major global entity, a centre of excellence and innovation. In that respect, the organization is refocusing its niche position as the “thought leader” and the go-to programme for issues pertaining to its work, setting the global discourse and agenda on sustainable urban development, driving political discussion, generating specialized and cutting-edge knowledge, shaping technical norms, principles and standards, and acting as a multiplier in the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practice in getting cities and other human settlements right.