Operations Company

WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company was established on 30 June 2025 with the purpose of ensuring the high-level organization of the Thirteenth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), to be held in Baku from 17 to 22 May 2026. The Operations Company is headed by the Executive Director Adil Mammadov. The company serves as the central operational body responsible for the planning and implementation of the WUF13. Its activities include coordinating preparatory processes, venue and infrastructure planning, human resources, security, sustainable development, the volunteer program, transportation, accreditation, and coordination with partners.

A professional and inclusive team has been formed to support the effective delivery of WUF13. Staff recruitment has emphasized both expertise and gender equality, ensuring balanced representation of women and men. A significant proportion of the team consists of local professionals with experience in organizing large-scale international events.

Inclusivity and accessibility are integral to the company’s event management approach. In line with relevant United Nations requirements, measures are being implemented to ensure accessible conditions for people with disabilities at the event venue. These include adapting the physical environment, providing specialized services, and establishing support mechanisms. In addition, comprehensive accessibility assessments have been conducted across the city, covering hotels, restaurants, museums, shopping centers, and tourist sites, with recommendations issued based on the findings.

WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company emphasizes sustainable development in the planning and delivery of the session. All stages of the event are being implemented in accordance with the ISO 20121 Sustainable Event Management Standard. Notably, this process includes the first-time adaptation of this international standard in Azerbaijan and its integration into the national standards system. Sustainability measures focus on minimizing the event’s carbon footprint, promoting the use of green energy sources, environmentally friendly and recyclable materials, and ensuring effective waste management practices.

This approach reflects WUF13’s role not only as a key platform for advancing the global urbanization agenda, but also as an initiative that promotes a responsible, inclusive, and sustainable model for international events.