New York:Azerbaijan raised concerns about the persistent threat of landmines and the issue of missing persons during a United Nations Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace, and Security. Nahida Baghirova, Counsellor of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations, emphasized these points during her address.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Baghirova highlighted that landmines and other explosive remnants of war pose a significant barrier to Azerbaijan’s post-conflict recovery and reconstruction efforts. Since November 2020, incidents involving landmines and unexploded ordnance have impacted 443 individuals, including women and children. This situation underscores the urgent need for enhanced humanitarian demining capacity and increased international assistance.
Baghirova also discussed Azerbaijan’s post-conflict recovery initiatives under the Great Return Programme, which aims to facilitate the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of internally displaced persons. The program also seeks to promote the active participation of women and girls in the country’s socioeconomic life and reconstruction efforts. Despite ongoing challenges, approximately 96,000 people have returned to rebuilt cities and villages where they live and work.
Moreover, the diplomat addressed the serious humanitarian concern regarding Azerbaijanis missing due to the former conflict, highlighting the need to clarify their whereabouts and intensify international efforts. Azerbaijan’s initiatives, such as the annual Baku Dialogue on Missing Persons, seek to address these issues and promote relevant UN General Assembly resolutions.
In her remarks, Baghirova referred to UN Security Council Resolution 1325, emphasizing the critical role of women’s full and equal participation in peace and security efforts and post-conflict recovery. She reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s dedication to empowering women in post-conflict settings, aligning with both national and international legal frameworks.