Evaluation of Socio-Economic Development in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan

Socio-economic development remains a central concern for policymakers worldwide, yet efforts often fail to translate into effective, actionable policies. This study examines the state of regional development in the city of Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, to explore the issue of policy-practice gap. Employing qualitative methods—including face-to-face interviews with local stakeholders and participant observation—the research was conducted over the course of one intensive fieldwork day. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed five recurring challenges: unemployment, water scarcity, rising cost of living, limited access to healthcare, and inadequate education. These issues reflect deep structural problems that contrast sharply with the objectives outlined in successive State Programs for regional development. By presenting empirical evidence from lived experiences, this study contributes to debates on sustainable regional development in post-Soviet contexts and calls for stronger monitoring, accountability, and policy responsiveness in Azerbaijan’s development agenda.