If we want more comfortable living conditions, healthcare, digital ecosystems, and other essential services should not be limited only to capitals and large cities, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, Indira Hajiyeva, said during the event titled “Youth and Civil Society Leadership in the Development of Sustainable and Inclusive Cities” held within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, APA reprots.
According to her, the deep differences between abandoned villages, small towns, and large megacities are already the result of an outdated approach.
Indira Hajiyeva stated that rapid urbanization places a heavy burden on the ecological environment of megacities and, most importantly, deprives millions of people of the freedom of choice. Urban comfort should not become a privilege only for those willing to live in “concrete forests.”
“Today, thanks to technology, we are on the threshold of a new era in which the boundaries between urban and rural concepts are disappearing. In order for people to live civilized and comfortable lives, there is no longer a need to cover the entire planet with concrete. High-speed internet, independent green energy, online education, and the sharing economy make it possible to ensure high urban standards, comfort, and inclusiveness anywhere in the world,” the deputy minister noted.
She added that young people are naturally a generation that does not accept rigid centralization and values mobility, freedom of choice, and flexibility:
“However, for this potential to be realized, the approach to public administration must change. Real authority and resources must be given to young people and local communities.”
The deputy minister also spoke about restoration and reconstruction work in the liberated territories:
“In Karabakh and East Zangezur, we are not simply rebuilding territories. Reconstruction is not only about building roads and buildings. It is about restoring life, opportunities, and everyday well-being.”
According to her, millions of citizens are witnessing the ongoing reconstruction efforts today, and hundreds of settlements once destroyed are being revived.
“Every community affected by war and destruction deserves not only to be restored, but also to have the opportunity to develop,” the deputy minister noted.
Indira Hajiyeva added that today thousands of people are already living, working, and studying in these revitalized territories.
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