Integration of IDPs in Local Economy May Help Develop Azeri Communities

"Over time this compassion evolved into understanding that the only way to solve their common problems was by participating in community-wide activities." Photo: Mercy Corps.

The community known as “Chemical 18”, is comprised of 400 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and local families. It is located in seven buildings that belong to a now defunct chemical plant used to house workers and college students. After the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan in 1992-1994 this area in Sumgait, Azerbaijan received an influx of over 200,000 IDPs who settled in these and other public buildings. As a result, local families occupying two or more rooms in dormitories had to move to just one.

Following the arrival of the IDPs families, the infrastructure of these building quickly deteriorated due to poorly maintained electric, water and sewage systems. Initially IDPs were not concerned on maintaining the infrastructure of their temporary homes. The local labor market, already depressed after the Soviet Union collapse became further saturated thus decreasing the opportunity for employment. These factors contributed towards a decline in quality of life for both IDPs and the local residents. The one difference was that whatever assistance the government or INGOs could provide, it was directed at IDPs and refugees. When asked if this assistance led to any conflict between the two groups, the local residents say they are sympathetic to the situation of their displaced fellow Azeris. Over time this compassion evolved into understanding that the only way to solve their common problems was by participating in community-wide activities.

Great patience and mutual tolerance helped IDPs and local residents to overcome potential conflict, gradually integrate their communities and solve the most urgent problems during the years. In one example, the World Vision Community Development project funded through Mercy Corps Azerbaijan Humanitarian Assistance Umbrella Program helped to explore further benefits of integrating IDPs into local communities. Through the project financial and technical assistance for implementation of joint micro-projects is being provided. The micro-projects included infrastructure rehabilitation, waste management, starting training classes where IDP and local children spend time together. Encouraged by the successful implementation of micro-projects “Chemical 18” community is planning to lead surrounding communities in implementation of bigger scale joint project that will promote further sense of community and tolerance among more people.