WUF13

WUF13

Great Return program aims to ensure return of 700,000 internally displaced persons

20 May 2026 16:25 (UTC +04:00)

The Great Return program covers large-scale measures and aims to ensure the safe, phased and sustainable return of approximately 700,000 internally displaced persons to their native lands, Fuad Huseynov, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Affairs of Refugees and IDPs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, said during the forum titled “Migration and Cities: A Framework for Safe, Innovative and Sustainable Governance” held within the framework of UN-WUF13, APA reports.

He stated that international experience, modern challenges and the potential of the liberated territories were taken into account during the preparation of the program: “At the same time, compatibility with the global development priorities of the UN and other international organizations was ensured, and the principles of ‘equal opportunities for all,’ ‘inclusive approach’ and ‘leaving no one behind’ were guided based on the Sustainable Development Goals. Today, Azerbaijan is carrying out an important mission such as the restoration and reconstruction of Karabakh and surrounding territories and ensuring the phased return of internally displaced persons. In this process, ‘smart villages’ and ‘smart cities,’ the ‘green economy’ and modern urban planning approaches occupy a special place. Settlement planning is being carried out in accordance with the principles of modern architecture and urbanism.”

Fuad Huseynov noted that new settlement plans covering 91 residential areas, including 12 districts and 11 cities, have already been approved: “This is one of the very rare and unique examples in world urbanism and architectural practice. In addition, due to the incomplete provision of maps of mined areas, a serious threat to civilians remains. Between 2020 and 2024, more than 420 people were killed or seriously injured as a result of mine explosions. Among them are former internally displaced persons wishing to return to their native lands. Despite all these difficulties, the mine threat and large-scale destruction, the Azerbaijani state continues this process with determination.”

Gunay Elshan