Baku Initiative Group marks third anniversary, highlights global outreach

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) has marked its third anniversary since its establishment on 6 July 2023, outlining an expanded portfolio of international engagement and cooperation initiatives.

The organisation was founded during the international conference “Towards the Complete Elimination of Colonialism,” held in Baku within the framework of the ministerial meeting of the Coordinating Bureau of the Non-Aligned Movement, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Over the past three years, BIG has organised more than 40 international conferences, including 10 held on United Nations platforms. The group has also published over 50 analytical materials, signed 10 memoranda of cooperation, and developed partnerships with more than 25 countries and overseas territories. In addition, the International Front for Decolonisation (FID – Front international de décolonisation) was established in Baku.

The organisation has also presented reports and participated in international discussions on colonialism and decolonisation issues. In October 2024, BIG submitted a report at the United Nations Office in Geneva addressing the consequences of French colonialism. Following this, the UN Human Rights Committee reportedly requested France to submit information regarding developments in New Caledonia. In May 2025, BIG’s activities were referenced in the UN Secretary-General’s report on the Second International Decade for People of African Descent.

On 24 June 2026, BIG held an event at the United States Congress building in Washington dedicated to the right of return, drawing international attention to the issue of the displacement of Azerbaijanis.

The group stated that it continues to expand cooperation with international organisations, academic institutions, and civil society actors as part of its broader decolonisation agenda.