“This platform will create a great power…”

The establishment of the Global South NGO Platform will pave the way for a new era in the NGO sector in Azerbaijan.

Activity directions will expand, the level of international cooperation will increase, and the strategic and necessary issues set by the Azerbaijani state for NGOs will be solved in a coordinated manner. This was stated by Vugar Oruc, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Society of Appraisers (AQC).

According to Mr. Oruc, the founding of the Baku Global South NGO Platform is not only a commendable event in the context of global NGO cooperation but will also contribute to addressing the challenges faced by Azerbaijan within a global framework. He stated that the Global South Platform is a massive initiative covering Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania—two-thirds of the world's countries—and aims to enhance civil society cooperation across the Global South.

“Many countries face issues such as injustice, poverty, the consequences of climate change, colonial legacies, digital divides, trade inequalities, and more. These issues concern the countries within the Platform, and can be addressed through joint efforts coordinated via this initiative,” he said.

Oruc also emphasized the significant role NGOs and associations play in the governance and development of states. The development trajectory and strategic goals of the Azerbaijani state necessitate the strengthening of NGOs and associations. Supporting current state policy in this regard and ensuring active participation in solving societal problems is only possible through the active engagement of NGOs. According to the AQC chairman, this platform will create a strong force that will enable more coordinated actions:

“With 116 NGOs representing 80% of the world’s population uniting under a platform initiated by Azerbaijan, enormous opportunities are being created. The NGO experience in Azerbaijan will be enriched as a result of this process. This is a success achieved collectively by civil societies, public organizations, and associations. Today, Azerbaijan is developing its position in all directions. As a result, the country's influence and standing in the region and the world will continue to grow. This is a reflection of President Ilham Aliyev’s multi-vector, institutional, and justice-based policy grounded in democracy and human rights.”