Baku: The head of the UN-Habitat Azerbaijan Office has announced plans to begin designing two new villages in Eastern Zangezur. This development is part of the broader efforts to support urban planning and reconstruction in the region, following the conflict in Karabakh. The initiative is closely coordinated with the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, and it represents a significant step in the ongoing Great Return Programme, which is spearheaded by the Azerbaijani government.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the UN-Habitat is also addressing climate change challenges affecting urban areas in Azerbaijan. The organization believes that cities play a crucial role in mitigating climate change impacts and is advocating for innovative urban planning solutions. With the expected decline in the Caspian Sea level posing risks to coastal cities like Baku, Neftchala, and Astara, UN-Habitat is implementing a project in collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, UNEP, and IOM. This project aims to apply nature-based solutions to combat flooding and promote water recycling.

The Great Return Programme has established a clear governance framework for the reconstruction of regions affected by conflict. The UN-Habitat official highlighted the impressive coordination among Azerbaijani ministries and institutions, which facilitates structured responses to community needs and guides investments from both the public and private sectors. The organization looks forward to conducting topographic surveys in Eastern Zangezur, which will pave the way for the design of the new villages.