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Introduction to Humanitarian Needs
In the Nagorno Karabakh Republic
An update from the NKR Government
September 2003
The Nagorno Karabakh Republic (NKR) was formed in
1991 as a result of the breakup of the former Soviet Union. Since then
the Republic has made steady progress in strengthening its democratic
and economic framework. During these years institutions of state government
have been established and several presidential, parliamentary and local
elections have taken place.
However, the devastating war imposed by neighboring
Azerbaijan (1988-1994) almost entirely destroyed Nagorno Karabakh's
economy and brought the nation to the brink of humanitarian disaster.
Today, the continuing Azerbaijani blockade seriously impedes post-war
reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.
Recognizing the ongoing need for humanitarian assistance
the U.S. Congress has provided humanitarian assistance to the people
of Nagorno Karabakh since 1998. Through various humanitarian organizations
the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has implemented
critical humanitarian projects, including construction of homes in sixty
villages, water supply projects in forty villages and renovation of
twelve schools in different provinces of Nagorno Karabakh.
These assistance programs have played a significant
role in addressing a wide range of humanitarian problems throughout
the Republic and contributed to the improvement of the daily life of
the population. However, much still needs to be done.
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