Statoil has supported the business development programme of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) in Azerbaijan since the beginning of 2008. Co-hosting the launch event for the: Small and Medium sized Business Development Programme November 19th and funding the programme the company is prolonging their investment in a successful partnership with DRC.

The Small and Medium sized Business Development Programme strikes a balance between supporting demand driven economic growth in the regions of Azerbaijan and the social development and employment for IDP’s living in the newly built settlements in these regions. The joining of NGO and private efforts have proven effective in the war-torn region.   

“Statoil is a private company with a presence in the region – the support they provide for the economy in the non oil sector is an important contribution to the communities where people do not benefit from the oil related labour. Targeting the IDP’s as well as the economical development in general is the most effective way to provide lasting changes and the joint venture of Statoil and DRC have proven a success,” says DRC’s Country Representative in Azerbaijan Mia Neumann.

All together 54 small and medium sized Businesses employing 305 IDP’s in 29 settlements with a direct positive impact on more than 1400 people have been established. This effort leads to lasting changes in the lives of IDP communities in Azerbaijan.

“A variety of business initiatives have generated a steady income for IDP’s in Azarbaijan. Wool processing, carpentry workshops, mills and hairdressers have been established. When local creativity, private funding and NGO support comes together there is a potential for great changes – Azarbaijan has a long way to go but I believe that things are moving in the right direction,” says Mia Neumann.

 

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