WASHINGTON, June 17, 2016 - Today the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved US$66.7 million in additional financing for the Internally Displaced Persons Living Standards and Livelihood Project in Azerbaijan. The objective of the Project is to improve living conditions and increase the economic self-reliance of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Approximately seven percent of Azerbaijan’s population are considered internally displaced and they constitute one of the most vulnerable segments of society. Many IDPs still lack access to quality infrastructure, social services and jobs. This additional financing aims to continue World Bank support to improve basic local infrastructure, living conditions, income, skills and job opportunities for IPDs, as well as non-IDP populations.
“Meeting the needs of IDPs is a key priority for Azerbaijan to achieve shared prosperity for all of its citizens, and we commend the efforts of the Government so far in creating decent living conditions for them”, says Larisa Leshchenko, World Bank Country Manager for Azerbaijan. “This project will complement existing efforts by providing better public services and income generation opportunities, in particular for youth.”
The project will support rehabilitation of community infrastructure, such as water and power supply, roads, drainage systems, schools and health centers. Additionally, it will include training and business development opportunities for young IDPs, income generation and micro-credit activities.
“While this project builds on our successful experience in the sector, it also has new features such as supporting IDPs to diversify their sources of livelihoods and income, thus contributing to the overall economic growth of Azerbaijan”, says Michelle Rebosio, who leads the World Bank team working on the project.
Azerbaijan joined the World Bank in 1992. Since that time commitments to the country have totaled over US$3 billion for 55 projects. The current World Bank portfolio in Azerbaijan consists of 11 active projects.
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