UIA reinforces call for resilient design after World Architecture Day 2025 celebrations

The International Union of Architects (UIA) has reaffirmed its 2025 World Architecture Day theme, “Design for Strength,” following this year’s global celebration on 6 October. The campaign calls on architects to design buildings and cities that can withstand disruption while fostering equity and sustainability.

Held annually alongside the United Nations’ World Habitat Day, the 2025 celebration aligned with the UN’s focus on urban crisis response. The UIA’s message underscored that architecture must move beyond short-term fixes and prioritise rebuilding strategies rooted in resilience and adaptability.

The initiative’s three core principles—Strength in Design, A Platform for Resilience, and Sustainable Rebuilding—encourage architects to integrate cultural sensitivity, durable materials, and circular construction methods into their practice. These approaches, the UIA said, are essential to creating built environments capable of recovery and continuity amid environmental and social challenges.

Architects, schools, and institutions worldwide were invited to participate through talks, exhibitions, and case studies showcasing resilience-led design. The UIA also urged its Member Sections to share examples of community-focused and resource-efficient projects to inspire the next generation of architects.

Based in Paris, the UIA continues to influence global architecture policy and promote knowledge exchange among professionals in over 100 countries.

See how “Design for Strength” is shaping global design priorities beyond World Architecture Day. Read the full feature here.