Towards Ecological Civilization: Ideas from Azerbaijan

Abstract

This discussion/review article traces relationships between an innovative strategic, national approach to national human resources development and enhancing national capacity for a more ecologically knowledgeable, sensitive society in a former Soviet country. With stunning speed following independence, Azerbaijan managed its extractive industries (oil and natural gas) effectively, rising to the top globally in annual GDP growth. Its determination to translate “black gold to human gold (BGHG)” and to diversify its economy led to a broad decade-long effort to modernize linkages between education, training and livelihood preparation. A complex national strategy to achieve BGHG was put in place, involving among other components, national labor force surveys, accelerated skills development, and employment service reforms. Given the pressing need for cleanup of Soviet industrial detritus, as well as emerging awareness of environmental responsibility among all sectors, unique “eco-civil” initiatives were launched both in schools and in civil service training programs. The resulting mosaic of public and private sector cooperation in meeting the twin goals of BGHG and a more “eco-civil” society can serve as a model for the region and beyond.