World Bank makes recommendations on "smart village" project in Azerbaijan

To assess the situation in the country for the application of "smart village" approaches, the World Bank has developed an analytical framework called the Smart Village Readiness Index, based on large amounts of global data, as well as national data sources. The data were obtained from the State Statistics Committee of Azerbaijan and various ministries and the MIX Market, the World Bank, the World Health Organization, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Report informs that this information is included in the World Bank's Framework for Analysis and Roadmap to analyze the creation of "smart villages" in Azerbaijan.

Smart Village Readiness Index is a sound framework with a wide range of variables. Still, the most appropriate and well-equipped one has not yet been tested by government officials and adapted to the Azerbaijani context. Due to the complexity of the database and the high level of technical skills required to manage the decision-making process, an appropriate government agency needs to be identified to improve knowledge for the maintenance and development of the information system and system. As a result of this process, the information framework and its use in development planning, investment, monitoring, and evaluation of results must be accepted by the government.

The Smart Village Readiness Index should be used to prioritize geographical areas that are ready to support the development of "smart villages" to varying degrees. Selection of top-down rural clusters according to the degree of readiness for the pilot project, investment in regional and national digital connectivity to make internet services more affordable, sustainable, and reliable, and assessment of digital literacy for the general population, especially minors and low-income people, targeting and increasing, encouraging local governments and community groups to move to digital technology, implement innovations, and adopt approaches that support decision-making and economic activity at the local level.

According to the report, to take advantage of the creative and problem-solving opportunities of the private sector, the government should apply innovative rural approaches to diversify economic activities in target cluster areas and eliminate pre-defined divisions between cities and countries. to address digital development issues more broadly. To offer non-digital solutions, it must organize and support competition through a possible "innovation fund."

"Considering the national, intersectoral nature of the 'smart village' approach, no ministry or government level can be responsible for its implementation. A ministry or agency can lead, but many must support and use strategies and resources to achieve real results." "The Azerbaijani government must decide which institutions to include, lead and implement these activities, but it will provide a place for cooperation and influence, support and partnership for development partners and the private sector," the World Bank said.