Oxfam's work in Azerbaijan in depth

Despite the country’s revenue from oil, most people in Azerbaijan still live in deep poverty – mainly because the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 left people without jobs, and the country without infrastructure, but also because of the brutal conflict with neighbouring Armenia. Hundreds of thousands of people who fled their homes, never able to return, are now gradually building a more promising and prosperous society.

Oxfam in Azerbaijan

Oxfam’s local partner organisations are providing affordable health care. They help farmers to improve production and get their produce to market, and they enable people to set up small businesses in their communities. We support local government to improve its accountability and transparency, thereby building people’s trust in the system. Oxfam adds further support by promoting actions for the country to be well prepared to respond to natural disasters and to deliver aid according to international standards.

Health care where it's needed

40 rural communities have started to run and finance their own primary health care schemes. Members contribute a monthly fee and receive professional treatment and medicines in return. Such schemes are a proven role model for the government to endorse and replicate throughout the country, as a stop-gap measure that ensures sufficient health services for its people. Aygun Mammadova, the doctor at the health post in Ismayilbayli says: “People are investing more in their health. They are starting to believe that they are entitled to see a doctor and to have basic essential medicines.” Oxfam’s input also includes building and improving clinics and increasing access to clean water.

From subsistence to sustainability

In south-central Azerbaijan, individual farmers don’t have influence over markets, or money to invest in their land. They work hard, but can only survive at a subsistence level. Oxfam’s partners are working to change this, by providing loans and by encouraging farmers to form associations that are now enabling them to work together to improve their production, processing, and marketing. Oxfam is further supporting communities by restoring and repairing irrigation and drainage systems.

Calling the government to account

Communities need more of a voice in determining how municipal governing bodies make decisions and manage budgets. Dialogue between people and local government has been an important element in achieving this. A youth centre in Mingachevir is one such ‘bridge’, providing a space for young people to put ideas and proposals forward. The municipality has responded by doubling its budget allocation to projects for young people.

Vusala Huseynova, 23, is optimistic: “I feel that the young people of this town can realise their plans for the future.”

Last updated: July 08