BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 14.The interview
stage of the Volunteer Programme has now officially commenced as
part of preparations for the 13th session of the World
Urban Forum (WUF13), Trend reports.


Out of a total of 16,000 applicants, around 10,000 candidates
who successfully passed the initial screening are expected to be
invited for interview. It is also worth noting that approximately
1,500 applications were submitted by foreign nationals.


This stage represents a crucial step in building a professional,
committed and highly motivated volunteer team for WUF13. It is
designed to evaluate candidates’ skills and knowledge,
communication abilities, teamwork readiness, and overall
motivation. Interviews will be conducted in phases, with the
selection process guided by principles of transparency,
impartiality and merit.


Candidates who successfully complete the interview stage will be
invited to participate in the training programme. Running from
January to April 2026, the programme is structured around three
core strands: general orientation, role allocation and venue-based
preparation. The training is designed to ensure volunteers are
fully prepared to perform their duties effectively and
professionally throughout the Forum. A total of 2,500 volunteers
who successfully complete the training programme will be deployed
across various areas of the Forum.


WUF13 volunteers will be engaged in a range of key functions
during the Forum, including welcoming and registering participants,
supporting information services, assisting with organisational
tasks at sessions and exhibition venues, coordinating cultural
programmes, and contributing to other priority workstreams.







The Volunteer Programme is expected to make a significant
contribution to the development of young people’s skills and
knowledge, offering valuable international experience and
broadening opportunities for cooperation in a multicultural
environment.


The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13)
will take place at the Baku Olympic Stadium from 17 to 22 May this
year.


WUF13 is an international platform, accessible to everyone and
free to attend. Registration for the Forum has been open since
September last year via the official website of the United Nations
Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat).