United Nations in Azerbaijan

Over the last eight years, Azerbaijan has demonstrated its firm commitment towards achieving the 2030 Agenda. The President of the Republic of Azerbaijan issued the Decree in 2016, to establish the National Coordination Council for Sustainable Development - a key partner for the United Nations to channel its support to the Government of Azerbaijan since then. Azerbaijan has been one of the first countries to undertake a MAPS mission (Mainstreaming, Acceleration and Policy Support for the 2030 Agenda) which outlined concrete policy and programming steps that could be taken to accelerate the goals nationally, the experience which was presented at the 2018 Baku Forum on Sustainable Development. This regional event also marked the adoption of the Baku Principles which established provisions for the integration of SDGs and acceleration of their implementation. With UN support, the National Information Portal on SDGs was launched, which introduces an interactive dashboard, collects consolidated data, tracks and monitors progress towards the SDGs in real-time. UN provides continuous support to strengthen national statistical capacities to produce quality data while focusing on disaggregation to Leave No One Behind. United Nations also makes special efforts to engage different groups including the private sector, media, parliamentarians, and the public, among others, in promoting the Goals.

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Publication

18 June 2025

Azerbaijan Annual Results Report 2024

In 2024, the United Nations in Azerbaijan, in close collaboration with the Government, development partners, and civil society, continued its efforts to support inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development across the country. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2021–2025, our work focused on strengthening institutions, empowering communities, and ensuring no one is left behind.

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Video

08 January 2026

Farewell Message from UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, Vladanka Andreeva

As she concludes her four-and-a-half-year tenure in Azerbaijan, United Nations Resident Coordinator Vladanka Andreeva has shared a heartfelt message reflecting on her mission: one rooted in service, meaningful partnerships, and a deep commitment to people-centered development.Since her arrival in 2021, Andreeva has worked closely with the Government of Azerbaijan, civil society organizations, the private sector, academia, and the UN Country Team to advance national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Throughout her tenure, she has championed inclusive development, social protection, quality education, gender equality, and support for families, ensuring that people remained at the heart of every UN initiative.In her message, Andreeva highlights key milestones and the collective efforts that shaped the UN’s contribution to sustainable development in the country. She recalls the resilience and warmth of communities across Azerbaijan: from the northern and southern regions to those rebuilding in the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions. She also reflects on Azerbaijan’s global engagement, including the historic moment of COP29, when the country welcomed the world and advanced climate action together with UN partners.The UN in Azerbaijan family extends its sincere gratitude to Vladanka Andreeva for her dedicated leadership, steady guidance, and unwavering commitment to the people of Azerbaijan.🎥 Watch her full farewell message

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Story

18 March 2026

Closing Ceremony Marks Completion of Project on Promoting Kahriz Rehabilitation for Climate Adaptation in Azerbaijan

On 17 March 2026, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Mission in Azerbaijan, in partnership with the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency and with funding from the Sasakawa Endowment Fund, held the Closing Ceremony of the project “Promoting Kahriz Rehabilitation for Enhanced Water‑Related Climate Adaptation in Azerbaijan”.Opening the event, Mr. Lars Johan Lönnback, Chief of Mission a.i. of IOM Azerbaijan and Sub‑regional Coordinator for the South Caucasus, highlighted the increasing pressures of climate change on Azerbaijan’s water resources. Against this backdrop, kahrizes remain a time‑tested, sustainable and decentralized water‑supply system that continues to serve communities in arid regions. Mr. Lönnback emphasized that since 2000, IOM has rehabilitated nearly 200 kahrizes, benefiting more than 30,000 households across 20 districts of Azerbaijan. The project aimed to generate evidence to support national decision‑making. With the support of Caucasus Geo Survey and the Water Agency, IOM produced two key studies, which were presented during the event: Cost‑Benefit Analysis comparing the efficiency of rehabilitating existing kahrizes versus drilling new sub‑artesian wells; andKahriz Selection Methodology, offering a transparent, data‑driven approach to prioritizing rehabilitation sites.In his opening remarks, Mr. Rashail Ismayilov, Deputy Chairman of the Amelioration Scientific Research Institute, highlighted the alignment of this work with the National Strategy on the Efficient Use of Water Resources, noting that the Strategy includes a specific activity dedicated to the rehabilitation of kahrizes. During the discussion, participants emphasized not only the strategic importance of kahriz rehabilitation for climate adaptation, but also the need to recognize kahrizes as part of Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage.Stakeholders highlighted that kahrizes embody centuries of traditional engineering knowledge and community‑based water governance. Protecting and rehabilitating them is therefore essential not only for water security but also for safeguarding an irreplaceable cultural legacy.The role of kankans—the traditional kahriz masters—was underscored as central to preserving this heritage. Their skills, passed down from generation to generation, remain at risk of disappearing without targeted support. The project’s earlier capacity development session in Ganja, involving students from four universities, was cited as an important step in inspiring the next generation of kahriz practitioners.‑in Ganja, involving students from four universities, was cited as an important step in inspiring the next generation of kahriz practitioners.

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27 February 2026

Capacity-Development on Kahrizes for Students and Young Specialists

On 27 February 2026, IOM Azerbaijan, in cooperation with the Azerbaijan State Water Reserves Agency and with support from the Sasakawa Endowment Fund, held a capacity development session in Ganja dedicated to kahriz rehabilitation as a nature‑based, climate‑resilient water solution. The event was held within the “Promoting Kahriz Rehabilitation for Enhanced Water-Related Climate Adaptation in Azerbaijan” project. Building the Knowledge of Future Water ProfessionalsThe session brought together 30 participants, including young specialists and university students from Azerbaijan State Agricultural University, Azerbaijan Technological University, Ganja State University, and Mingachevir State University. The goal was to strengthen the capacity of future practitioners by introducing them to:climate change and adaptation concepts,water resources management in Azerbaijan,the history and technical structure of kahrizes, andinnovative approaches, including the potential role of artificial intelligence. Interactive and Multidisciplinary ProgramThe full‑day program included expert presentations, a short documentary film on ancient water systems, and discussions on the potential of kahriz rehabilitation to support climate‑resilient development. Sessions were delivered by national and international specialists in climate science, hydrology, water engineering, and kahriz research. Commitment to Sustainable Water SolutionsBy engaging young professionals and academic institutions, IOM Azerbaijan aims to expand national expertise on sustainable groundwater management and reinforce the role of kahrizes in modern water‑related climate adaptation efforts. The initiative contributes to strengthening community resilience, safeguarding traditional knowledge, and promoting nature‑based solutions for Azerbaijan’s future water security.

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Story

19 December 2025

Media Professionals Engage in Seminar on Promoting Inclusive Language in Azerbaijan

A seminar on “Promoting the Use of Inclusive Language in Media” was held in Baku, bringing together media professionals, representatives of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and experts to strengthen responsible and inclusive reporting practices.The event was jointly organized by the United Nations in Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing inclusive communication and disability rights. Participants included members of the UN Communications Group and the UN Inclusion Working Group, as well as disability rights experts and representatives of OPDs. The seminar aimed to raise awareness among media professionals on the use of inclusive, non-discriminatory language and to promote accurate and respectful coverage of disability-related issues.Through interactive sessions and practical group work, participants explored real-life examples and applied approaches to using empowering language in media content. A dedicated presentation on “Understanding Disability and Inclusion: Key Concepts and Terminology” provided a foundation for strengthening knowledge and shaping more inclusive narratives. A highlight of the seminar was the interactive scene “The Words We Choose”, performed by Gular Fatali and Zinyat Aliyeva. Through a dialogue between a journalist and a university employee, the performance illustrated the importance of respectful, person-first language and demonstrated how storytelling can promote dignity, equality, and inclusion.In her remarks, Vladanka Andreeva, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, highlighted the critical role of media in shaping public perceptions. She emphasized that journalists are not only storytellers but also key partners in driving social change. Responsible and inclusive journalism, she noted, can help reduce stigma and ensure that persons with disabilities are represented as rights-holders and active members of society.The seminar was conducted in an interactive format, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among media representatives, persons with disabilities, experts, and government and UN stakeholders. It encouraged the development of stories that reflect dignity, equality, and individuality.The initiative contributes to ongoing efforts in Azerbaijan to foster inclusive societies and promote equal opportunities for all.

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28 November 2024

COP29 and UN Azerbaijan: a Joint Commitment to Climate Action

In November 2024, Azerbaijan hosted COP29, convening global leaders and negotiators to advance climate action.
Beyond formal negotiations, COP29 featured side events and dialogues, fostering collaboration and strengthening partnerships for inclusive and sustainable
solutions.
• Following the COP29 presidency’s request for coordinated UN support, the Global UN COP29 Task Force was activated by the Deputy Secretary-General
and co-chaired by the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Climate Action and Just Transition and the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan. Consisting of around 25 UN entities, the Task Force provided substantive support for 12 (out of 14) Presidency Initiatives launched during COP29. The Task Force has been hailed as a good practice of inter-agency collaboration in support of host governments of large-scale international conferences.
• As an integral part of the UN Azerbaijan COP29 Engagement Strategy, the UN organized the climate conversations series 29 Climate Conversations on
the Road to COP29 in Baku and some regions, in partnership with the COP29 presidency, the government, the private sector, civil society, young people, development partners, academia, the media and others, to raise awareness of climate change and mobilize climate action across the country. Addressing topics such as digital innovation, just transition, reproductive health, and green finance, the series brought together government representatives, international organizations, civil society, and private sector leaders to drive actionable solutions.
• Designed to inspire meaningful discussions and solutions, the UN Azerbaijan Pavilion at COP29 hosted around 25 events to explore the effects of climate change on women, children, refugees, migrants, and other vulnerable groups. Distinguished speakers engaged with participants, particularly youth, in insightful discussions on climate leadership.
• A key feature of the pavilion was the Four Climate Dialogues, a series of high-level interviews with experts and leaders on critical climate issues. These discussions provided insights into sustainable development strategies and actionable resilience measures for Azerbaijan and beyond. In addition, the Climate Impact and World Children’s Day photo exhibitions were held.
• At COP29, Azerbaijan launched several key initiatives with UN support to advance climate action and sustainable development, including the Baku
The Harmony Climate Initiative for Farmers aims to strengthen climate change adaptation in agriculture, food systems, and water management. Multisectoral
Action Pathways (MAP) to Resilient and Healthy Cities, endorsed by 45 governments, provides a framework for integrating climate resilience, public
health, and urban sustainability into national policies. The launch of the National Strategy for 2025–2030 on the Prevention and Control of Zoonotic Diseases reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to global health security and climate resilience. In parallel, the Environmental Performance Review was presented, engaging
stakeholders in aligning environmental and economic goals, and assessing compliance with international environmental commitments.
• Azerbaijan has also signed the Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action, committing to put children at the centre of climate policy. The Government also joined the Global Children’s Environmental Health Collaborative, making the country the ninth globally to join the initiative, established to prioritize children’s environmental health needs in local and international platforms.

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Press Release

18 December 2025

Seminar Held on “Promoting Inclusive Language in Media”

A seminar titled “Promoting Inclusive Language in Media” was held, jointly organized by the United Nations in Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population. The event brought together media representatives, NGOs working on disability-related issues, members of the UN Communications Group and the Inclusion Working Group, as well as experts.At the opening of the seminar, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population Rashad Mustafayev spoke about the work being carried out in Azerbaijan in the areas of social protection, rehabilitation, and social integration of persons with disabilities. It was noted that within the framework of social reforms implemented in recent years upon the instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, significant increases have been made in pensions, allowances, and scholarships for persons with disabilities. The important role of the DOST Inclusive Development and Creativity Center, established on the initiative of First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, in developing the creative potential of persons with disabilities was also highlighted. The Ministry shared information on inclusive projects implemented in recent years for persons with disabilities.It was emphasized that, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, one of the directions of improving national legislation based on progressive international practice has been the replacement of a number of stereotypical, outdated, or vulgar terms related to disability with modern and ethically appropriate expressions. For example, terms such as “mute” have been replaced with “a person with fully limited speech ability,” “blind” with “a person with fully limited vision,” and “deaf” with “a person with fully limited hearing,” among others.It was stressed that the media should also avoid using outdated terminology or vulgar expressions when reporting on issues related to persons with disabilities. Instead, journalists are encouraged to use correct, inclusive, and respectful language reflected in legislation, promoting an approach that respects the characteristics and dignity of these individuals.UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, Ms. Vladanka Andreeva, referred to the UN Disability-Inclusive Communication Guidelines and underlined the importance of inclusive language in the media. She noted that the training aimed to promote dialogue among participants, share good practices, and strengthen capacity for the use of inclusive language in media reporting.As part of the seminar, an interactive performance titled “The Words We Choose” was presented, along with a presentation on “Understanding Disability and Inclusion – Key Concepts and Terminology.” An interactive training session on the use of inclusive language in describing disability was conducted. Group work was also organized, during which participants wrote short news pieces or stories using inclusive language, followed by an evaluation of the final outputs.

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Press Release

24 October 2025

Azerbaijan and the United Nations sign a new Cooperation Framework for 2026–2030 as the UN marks its 80th anniversary

Baku, [24 October 2025] - On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the Government of Azerbaijan and the UN Country Team in Azerbaijan signed the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2026–2030. The new Cooperation Framework was signed by Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Vladanka Andreeva, the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan. The Framework defines the strategic direction of partnership between the Government and the United Nations over the next five years, reflecting shared commitments to advance sustainable development and the well-being of all people in Azerbaijan. Ms. Vladanka Andreeva, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, highlighted the strong partnership between the Government of Azerbaijan and the United Nations in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Ms. Andreeva noted that the signing of the new Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, coinciding with the UN’s 80th anniversary, marks a new and forward-looking phase of collaboration-grounded in shared commitment to sustainable development for people and planet. In his remarks, Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov emphasized the important role of the United Nations as one of the main pillars of multilateral diplomacy and extended his congratulations on the occasion of the Organization’s 80th anniversary. Mr. Bayramov noted that Azerbaijan, in full alignment with the UN’s Global Agenda, attaches particular importance to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting digital innovations, empowering women and youth, and fostering humanitarian initiatives and intercultural dialogue. In his remarks, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov highlighted the long-standing and effective cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United Nations. He noted that this partnership has created new opportunities for sustainable development and effective support mechanisms to enhance the country’s economic development model. The Minister emphasized that the new Cooperation Framework, marking a new phase of joint action, builds upon the achievements of previous cooperation periods and aligns with Azerbaijan’s long-term socio-economic priorities, including the development of human capital, promotion of innovation, ecosystems, climate resilience, an efficient green transition, and inclusive growth. The event brought together senior government officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and international organizations. Participants reflected on eight decades of the UN’s global work and Azerbaijan’s partnership with the Organization in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The ceremony featured a screening of “A Living Legacy”, a short film dedicated to the UN’s 80-year history of promoting peace, dignity, and prosperity for all.The UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030) serves as the central planning instrument for the UN development system’s activities in Azerbaijan, guiding joint efforts to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals through coordinated, transparent, and accountable action.

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Press Release

31 January 2025

Strategic priorities for the future cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN discussed

With participation of over 150 representatives from the Government, UN Country Team, civil society, youth, academia, private sector, development partners and others, the participants had an interactive dialogue on the areas where the UN is best placed to contribute, in support of Azerbaijan’s national development priorities and accelerated progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The workshop opened with remarks from H.E. Mr. Samad Bashirli, Deputy Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Vladanka Andreeva, UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan.Emphasizing Azerbaijan’s strong commitment to the SDGs, Mr. Bashirli stated that the country maintains close cooperation with the UN and actively supports global initiatives, with Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 bringing the relationship to a new level.Noting the country’s readiness to cooperate for the successful implementation of the new Cooperation Framework, Mr. Rafiyev emphasized the importance of advancing the National SDG 18 on Mine Action for Azerbaijan’s sustainable development.Appreciating the close collaboration and strong partnership with the Government and different stakeholders under the current Cooperation Framework (2021-2025) and in the context of COP29, Andreeva said: “The UN Country Team is here to support the Government and its people in Azerbaijan’s journey towards sustainable development. The strategic priority areas that we will discuss today are not separate priorities for the UN but the UN’s contribution for Azerbaijan to achieve the SDGs, including National SDG 18 on Mine Action.” The full-day workshop concluded with a broad consensus on the strategic priority areas of cooperation, in support of Azerbaijan’s national development priorities and progress towards the SDGs through the collective promise to leave no one behind.

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Press Release

16 December 2024

IOM Azerbaijan Supports the Sustainable Reintegration of Voluntary Returnees

During January-October 2024, IOM Azerbaijan facilitated reintegration of 295 individuals returning from various European countries and supported them in establishing small businesses, and addressing temporary housing, education or medical needs. Since 2018, IOM has facilitated the safe and dignified return of over 5,400 individuals to Azerbaijan and provided reintegration support to more than 3,400 returnees, mainly from Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland and Switzerland through AVRR. These initiatives align with IOM’s global efforts to promote safe, orderly, and dignified migration while ensuring the human rights of migrants are upheld. Since 1979, IOM has supported the return and reintegration of over 1.6 million people worldwide in collaboration with governments, international organizations, and non-governmental stakeholders.IOM’s reintegration assistance directly contributes to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly target 10.7, which focuses on facilitating safe and responsible migration. It also supports other related targets, including 10.2, 17.9, and 17.17.The AVRR programme also align with the objectives of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, particularly Objective 21, which emphasizes cooperation in facilitating safe and dignified return and sustainable reintegration. Other objectives, including 1 (data collection), 3 (provision of information), 4 (legal pathways), 7 (reducing vulnerabilities), 12 (screening and referral), and 13 (migration in disaster contexts), are also supported through IOM’s broader commitment to enhancing migration governance.IOM remains a committed partner to the government of Azerbaijan in achieving these goals.

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