Azerbaijan’s social innovation models showcased on UN platform

A side event titled “Innovative Approach to Inclusive Service Delivery: Towards transformative impact through social innovation” was held within the framework of the 82nd session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

The event was jointly organized by the Agency for Sustainable and Operative Social Provision (DOST Agency) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population, State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ASAN Service), and the China Disabled Person’s Federation. Hosted in Bangkok, Thailand, the event brought together representatives of Azerbaijani government institutions, who joined online to present the country’s advanced practices in the social sector to an international audience.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of the DOST Agency, Farid Mammadov, provided an overview of the DOST concept and highlighted the advantages of the “one-stop shop” model in delivering labor and social protection services. He noted that the DOST model has been recognized among leading international practices and has achieved significant success.

During the subsequent panel discussion, Director of Baku DOST Center No. 1, Ruslan Mirzaliyev, delivered a presentation titled “DOST: Citizen-centric, digitally driven social innovation”. The presentation covered the integrated delivery of public services under the “one-stop shop” principle, as well as proactive services implemented in the field of labor and social protection. He also highlighted data-driven management approaches and technology-based solutions aimed at ensuring accessibility for vulnerable groups, positioning them as exemplary practices for countries in the region.

The event brought together high-level experts from various countries to exchange views on improving social service ecosystems for persons with disabilities and older people. Discussions addressed key strategic issues such as enhancing citizen engagement, strengthening public-private partnerships, and ensuring sustainable financing of innovative service models.

At the end of the event, a set of practical recommendations on the development of inclusive services was adopted, and the importance of expanding global cooperation based on the principle of “leaving no one behind” was emphasized.