Baku: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Deputy Director General has lauded Azerbaijan's efforts in managing urbanization and displacement issues, highlighting the country's leadership in organizing significant global conferences like the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku. This event is particularly crucial in light of recent data indicating over 82 million people were internally displaced last year due to conflict or climate impacts.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the IOM emphasized the growing trend of urban displacement, with increasing numbers of people moving to cities. This migration trend exerts pressure on urban areas, necessitating that migration be integrated into urban policy and planning. Migrants, including internally displaced individuals, contribute significantly to urban life through innovation, entrepreneurship, and labor, thereby impacting the growth and development of cities. The IOM advocates for sustainable development by managing migration and urbanization effectively, offering global examples of successful implementation.
The Deputy Director General expressed satisfaction with Azerbaijan's logistical and organizational prowess in hosting international forums, noting the country's extensive experience in managing such events. Beyond logistics, Azerbaijan demonstrates leadership in policy formulation, reconstruction, and managing urbanization and displacement challenges domestically.
The Deputy Director General also reflected on the successful outcome of the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) held in New York, where member states reaffirmed their commitment to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. The consensus reached at the forum emphasizes the importance of multilateral cooperation in managing migration. Azerbaijan's role as a GCM champion country and leader among champions in facilitating discussions underscores its commitment to global prosperity through effective migration management.
IOM's longstanding partnership with the Azerbaijani government includes cooperation on reconstruction efforts in the Karabakh region. The organization has been involved in restoring water supply systems and supporting the government's 'build back better' approach, ensuring smart city development that considers the needs of former internally displaced persons. The IOM takes pride in this collaborative effort, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable urban development.