Baku, Azerbaijan, June 18
By Anvar Mammadov – Trend:
The World Bank (WB) Board of Directors approved the allocation of additional funds worth $66.7 million for the IDP Living Standards and Livelihoods Project, said a message posted on the WB website June 18.
According to the message, the project aims to improve the living conditions and increase the economic self-reliance of the internally displaced people (IDP).
WB said around 7 percent of the Azerbaijani population is the IDPs, who are one of the most vulnerable layers of the society.
“Most of the IDPs are still unable to use the quality infrastructure, social services, and are not provided with jobs,” the message said. “Additional funds will be spent to improve the basic local infrastructure, IDPs’ living conditions, income, skills and employment opportunities.”
“Meeting the IDPs’ needs is a priority for Azerbaijan to achieve common prosperity for all its citizens,” said Larisa Leshchenko, head of the WB Baku office.
“We appreciate the Azerbaijani government’s efforts to create decent living conditions for the IDPs,” Leshchenko said. “The project will complement the existing efforts by ensuring the best public services and income opportunities, particularly, for young people.”
This is the third IDP Living Standards and Livelihoods Project, implemented by the WB in Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan joined the WB in 1992.
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