Signing Ceremony of the Grant Arrangement for the "Supporting the Livelihoods of Vulnerable Populations Living in Azerbaijan Territories Affected by Armed Conflict" Project

On August 30, 2023, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) came together to formalize a partnership through the signing of a Grant Arrangement for the "Supporting the Livelihoods of Vulnerable Populations Living in Azerbaijan Territories Affected by Armed Conflict" Project.
The signing of the Project Documents took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, with the Country Director of the KOICA Azerbaijan Office, Mr. Moon Jong Hyun, and the Head of Delegation of the ICRC Azerbaijan Office, Ms. Dragana Kojic, underscoring the mutual commitment to this essential initiative.
Under the terms of this arrangement, KOICA, through its contribution of $6 million, will provide financial support for the successful implementation of the project within Azerbaijan. The project, which will be implemented by the ICRC Azerbaijan Office, is planned to be continued from 2023 until 2026.
In his statement, Mr. Moon Jong Hyun, Country Director of the KOICA Azerbaijan Office, emphasized, "This collaboration underscores our dedication to addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable population affected by armed conflict. Our goal is to improve the lives of those impacted by the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict through sustainable economic measures, administrative support, livelihood assistance, and emergency aid when needed."
Ms. Dragana Kojic, Head of Delegation of the ICRC Azerbaijan Office, highlighted, "The collaboration between KOICA and ICRC demonstrates the power of working together to make a tangible difference in the lives of people who have suffered from conflicts. Our joint endeavors will enable us to offer assistance to civilian communities in 11 districts of Azerbaijan.”
The project will extend its reach to the 11 Azerbaijani districts bordering with Armenia as well as former line of contact. By focusing on these districts, the initiative seeks to create lasting positive change within communities that have been affected by armed conflicts.
Project focus on supporting affected communities by enhancing their access to social programs, enabling struggling households to boosting agricultural capabilities in affected villages, empowering local actors including farmers and associations, and strengthening the humanitarian capacity of the Red Crescent Society of Azerbaijan. In emergencies, one-time grants for conflict-affected individuals will be provided to regain stability.