Gulshan Rzayeva: Housing issue included in large-scale urban development programs in Azerbaijan

Housing in Azerbaijan is at the center of social policy and a key element of large-scale construction and urban development programs, Gulshan Rzayeva, Deputy Head of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture and Deputy National Coordinator of WUF13, said during a panel session at the World Urban Forum WUF13, Report informs.

According to her, since the liberation of Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur, Azerbaijan has been implementing one of the largest reconstruction, rehabilitation, and resettlement programs in its modern history.

"Today, large-scale work is underway to restore cities, restore life to communities, and create new living environments where housing is viewed not only as a basic need but also as a key factor in the return of the population, ensuring stability and long-term development. This experience strengthens our conviction that housing policy must be at the center of national recovery and planning efforts, especially in the context of urban transformation and post-conflict reconstruction," she emphasized.

Rzayeva also noted the close relationship between housing and economic development.

"Housing contributes to job creation, increased productivity, and sustainable economic growth. It largely determines how cities function and how opportunities are generated and distributed. Therefore, it is crucial to consider how housing systems can more effectively encompass various economic sectors, as well as which financing and planning approaches can provide more affordable and sustainable solutions," she said.

According to Rzayeva, housing policy is also directly linked to the climate agenda and sustainable development.

"We recognize the close connection between housing policy, climate action, and sustainable development-these areas actually go hand in hand. How we plan, build, and manage housing directly impacts the environment, sustainability, and health of our cities," she added.

She emphasized that these are the issues addressed in the discussions opening today at the forum.