Baku launches volunteer centre ahead of 2026 UN World Urban Forum Photo

Azerbaijan officially inaugurated the World Urban Forum (WUF13) Volunteer Centre on International Volunteer Day in preparations for the 13th session of the forum to be held in Baku in 2026.

The new centre will serve as the main hub for training, coordinating, and managing the forum’s volunteer workforce, ensuring the smooth delivery of one of the world’s largest global gatherings on sustainable urban development, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

The opening ceremony brought together senior officials and UN representatives, including Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan and WUF13 National Coordinator; Adil Mammadov, Executive Director of the WUF13 Operating Company; UN Coordinator for WUF13 Abdinnasir Sagar; and Anna Soave, Head of UN-Habitat’s Country Office in Azerbaijan.

Designed as an inclusive and interactive platform, the WUF13 Volunteer Program aims to inspire youth engagement, promote innovation, and strengthen leadership skills while offering participants meaningful international experience.

Registration for the program is now open. Applicants must be at least 18 years old by May 1, 2026, and demonstrate fluent English communication skills. Eligible candidates will be invited for interviews, with those selected moving on to a comprehensive training program.

Training sessions, scheduled from January to April 2026, will cover general orientation, role assignments, and venue-specific responsibilities.

During the forum, volunteers will play a central role in welcoming international participants, supporting registration and information services, assisting with operations across sessions and exhibitions, and contributing to cultural program activities.

By Sabina Mammadli