International Red Cross to end operations in Azerbaijan following government decision

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) will formally conclude its mission in Azerbaijan and close its representation in the country on September 3, 2025, following a decision by the Azerbaijani government.

The development was confirmed by ICRC representatives, who noted that the organization’s withdrawal comes as part of a coordinated transition process, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Despite the closure of its physical presence, the ICRC emphasized that it remains committed to ongoing engagement with Azerbaijani authorities in line with its humanitarian mandate and Azerbaijan’s obligations under the Geneva Conventions.

“We intend to continue our dialogue on humanitarian diplomacy and other humanitarian issues of mutual interest,” the organization stated.

The ICRC has operated in Azerbaijan for decades, particularly in the context of regional conflicts and post-conflict recovery. Its work has included support for detainees, assistance to families of missing persons, and facilitation of humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas.

While the closure marks the end of a formal ICRC presence in the country, the organization underscored that it will pursue cooperation on issues related to international humanitarian law, the protection of vulnerable populations, and other shared concerns.

By Vafa Guliyeva