UNESCO adds Azerbaijan’s Greater Caucasus reserve to global network

Azerbaijan has been included for the first time in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, following the designation of the Greater Caucasus Biosphere Reserve, the country’s Permanent Representation to UNESCO told local journalists.

The decision was adopted unanimously on June 5 during the 38th session of the International Coordinating Council of UNESCO’s “Man and the Biosphere” Programme.

The newly recognised site lies within the Greater Caucasus mountain range, which stretches more than 1,100 kilometres between the Caspian and Black seas and is regarded as one of the world’s key biodiversity hotspots.

According to the Azerbaijani representation, the reserve is characterized by unique flora and fauna, including a large number of endemic and rare species, underscoring the global environmental significance of the designation and its contribution to international conservation efforts.

The council session has been underway since June 3 in Hernandarias, Paraguay, with participation from Azerbaijan’s delegation, which includes representatives of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the country’s Permanent Representation to UNESCO. Azerbaijan is a full member of the council.

Officials described the timing of the decision, adopted on World Environment Day, as symbolic.

UNESCO’s “Man and the Biosphere” Programme, established in 1971, now encompasses more than 750 biosphere reserves across 136 countries and serves as a key international framework for biodiversity conservation and the promotion of sustainable development.

By Tamilla Hasanova