As part of the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), one of the most prestigious events of the United Nations hosted by Azerbaijan, the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA) organized a side event entitled “Post-Conflict Urban Reconstruction: The Critical Role of Humanitarian Mine Action.”

The side event, held at the Azerbaijan Pavilion, brought together representatives of state institutions and international organizations to draw the attention of the international community to the mine problem faced by Azerbaijan, highlight the impact of mine threats on recovery and reconstruction processes, and discuss global cooperation and recovery experiences in the field of demining.

Delivering the opening remarks, Chairman of the Board of ANAMA Vugar Suleymanov stated that demining is not only a life-saving humanitarian activity, but also a foundation for recovery and reconstruction. He emphasized that it creates the necessary conditions for rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, revitalizing agriculture, developing transport networks, and supporting economic activity. He also noted that, within the framework of the “Great Return” Program, mine action is fully integrated into urban planning, reconstruction, and development processes.

He further underlined that this challenge is not unique to Azerbaijan. Many countries around the world face similar situations, where mine threats continue to delay recovery, restrict development, and place civilian populations at risk. In this regard, he noted that platforms such as this event are of particular importance. Addressing large-scale contamination requires not only national efforts, but also sustained international support, partnerships, innovative approaches, and the sharing of best practices.

The panel discussion, moderated by Emil Hasanov, Deputy Chairman of the Public Council under ANAMA, featured the participation of Samir Poladov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of ANAMA; Mariana Kujundžić, Head of the European Union Delegation to Azerbaijan, Ambassador; Rodrigo Labardini, ADA University professor and former Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mexico to Azerbaijan; and Ramil Jahangirov, Head of the Project Management Department of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture.

The panel discussion focused on humanitarian demining and Azerbaijan’s experience as a foundation for safe urban reconstruction, international cooperation in support of post-conflict recovery and reconstruction, as well as urban planning and reconstruction in cleared areas.

The side event emphasized the strategic importance of humanitarian demining in rebuilding safe and inclusive cities in the post-conflict period.