Azerbaijani official outlines post-conflict urban development strategy

Azerbaijan is promoting a sustainable recovery model and human-centred urban development in its post-conflict reconstruction efforts, Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children’s Affairs Bahar Muradova said at the Women’s Assembly held as part of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum.

Speaking at the event, Muradova highlighted that ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls has been defined as a key priority in the restoration and reconstruction of the country’s liberated territories.

She noted that large-scale reconstruction efforts in areas liberated from occupation are being carried out using modern urban planning principles and “smart” solutions.

“‘Green’ development, digital innovation, social integration and safe living conditions are being implemented in a comprehensive manner. Ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls has been identified as one of the key priorities. This approach is reflected both in the restoration of the liberated territories and in the development model of Baku. As a country that experienced the consequences of conflict for many years, Azerbaijan in the post-conflict period promotes a sustainable recovery model and human-centred urban development,” she said.

Muradova added that Baku serves as a contemporary model of a city focused on safety, accessibility and sustainability, with particular emphasis on public spaces, mobility, green infrastructure and social services.

“Particular attention is paid to public spaces, mobility, ‘green’ infrastructure and social services. Hosting major international platforms in Baku demonstrates the growing role of cities in global dialogue and cooperation. This approach fully corresponds to the ‘Cities’ Voice’ concept promoted by UN-Habitat.”

She also called for greater inclusion of women in decision-making processes related to urban planning and climate policy, stressing that such participation contributes to safer, more inclusive and more responsive urban environments.

“Azerbaijan attaches special importance to strengthening cooperation between government institutions, the private sector and civil society to advance this approach. In general, women’s participation in decision-making related to urban planning and climate policy should be further expanded. Creating cities that meet the needs of women means building a safer, more sustainable and more humane future,” Muradova emphasised.

By Tamilla Hasanova