Khankendi: On 10 May, Karabakh University hosted a panel discussion on ‘Inclusive Urban Development: Women, Communities and a Sustainable Future’ as part of the WUF13 Festival programme. Bringing together a mix of experts, civic voices and participants, the event offered a platform to examine how inclusive approaches, women’s leadership and sustainability principles are reshaping the future of cities. Speakers highlighted the importance of initiatives delivered during the WUF13 Festival for enhancing public awareness of urbanisation, sustainability and social development, while fostering dialogue among stakeholders and encouraging collaboration.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the panel included Emin Huseynzade, Communications Manager at the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company; Gulnara Ismayilova, Director of Resource HUB; Dr Gulchohra Huseynova, Associate Professor at the Institute of Geography under the Ministry of Science and Education; and Lala Nasibova, a young architect and master’s student at the Polytechnic University of Turin. In an exchange with students, the speakers explored the role of community participation in urban planning, the importance of women’s representation in decision-making, and the interplay between international best practice and locally grounded approaches to creating more accessible and sustainable urban environments.
During the discussion, it was noted that Khankendi is undergoing reconstruction and is an emerging hub of ideas, energy and intellectual exchange. Participants highlighted that dialogue around inclusive urban planning, community engagement and the future shape of cities is particularly relevant for the city’s development.
Panellists underscored that Khankendi’s urban identity will be shaped by open dialogue, diverse perspectives and people-centred approaches. They emphasised that sustainable urban development must rest on social inclusion, community participation and human-focused planning, not just infrastructure.
The session continued interactively, with a lively exchange of views informed by questions and reflections from participants.