New investments drive sustainable resettlement in Azerbaijan's Jabrayil

The next phase of construction in Shukurbeyli village, located in the Jabrayil district, is set to commence as part of the ongoing settlement project.

The settlement is being developed to accommodate 1,042 families, with 407 families scheduled for resettlement in the second phase, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

 As part of this stage, work will begin on dismantling the remains of destroyed and demolished buildings, along with other structures. The total area covered by the project spans 298 hectares.

The Social Development Fund for IDPs of Azerbaijan has initiated the necessary work, with a budget of 147,138 manats ($86,470) allocated for its implementation.

The Azerbaijani government continues to invest significantly in transforming Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur into thriving economic hubs. The “2022-2026 Social and Economic Development Strategy of Azerbaijan” and the “Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development” programs serve as key frameworks for the region’s revival. Since 2021, more than $10.37 billion has been allocated from the state budget for reconstruction efforts.

A major component of these efforts is the “I State Program on the Great Return to the Territories Liberated from Occupation of the Republic of Azerbaijan.” This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to sustainable resettlement and regional development. As an initial step, large-scale demining operations were undertaken, leading to the clearance of 1,536,652,787 square meters of land from mines and unexploded ordnance between 2020 and 2024.

The “Great Return” program plays a crucial role in facilitating the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes. By the end of the first stage in late 2026, the plan aims to accommodate up to 34,500 families, or approximately 140,000 individuals.

To support both economic growth and resettlement under this program, the Azerbaijani government is implementing a wide range of measures. These efforts focus on establishing employment opportunities, ensuring high living standards, and fostering sustainable regional development.

Returnees will be provided with modern housing, essential infrastructure, and key services, forming part of Azerbaijan’s broader commitment to establishing a sustainable living environment in the liberated territories. Beyond basic infrastructure, economic initiatives — including agriculture, small business support, and other development projects — are being introduced to ease reintegration and stimulate local economic activity. Through this comprehensive approach, the government aims to create a stable, secure, and prosperous future for those returning to Karabakh.

By Tamilla Hasanova