Gulshan Akhundova

Gulshan Akhundova graduated from Azerbaijan State Medical University with a degree in pharmacy. She has worked for Caucasus projects with many International Organizations such as Merlin, Medicine du Monde, Medicines Sans Frontiers Belgium/Netherlands, CHF International, IRD and some private companies such as Berlin Chemie and Bechtel National. Over the years, she has held significant roles both at the national and international levels, contributing to major humanitarian and health-related projects.

Currently, Gulshan serves as a member of the COP 29 Organizing Committee of Azerbaijan, where she actively participates in the organization and implementation of climate policies. She also works as a pharmaceutical expert at A-Group Insurance Company, filling prescriptions, verifying dosages, preparing medication analogies for doctors, and coordinating with insurance companies to ensure patients receive the required medication. In addition, she works with Palex Group Inc., organizing and directing pharmaceutical services in accordance with local regulations and standards.

Her previous role as a Training and Database Coordinator at Bechtel National involved coordinating execution of CBEP training program, including communications, administrative, and logistics activities. Gulshan also had leadership roles in the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources for the Azerbaijan Rural Environment Project funded by the World Bank, and have demonstrated expertise in recruitment and the development of long-term strategic plans.

As Community Mobilization and Environmental Specialist for the Azerbaijan Republic Social Fund for Development of IDPs, Gulshan managed micro-projects in IDP communities, and ensured compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards. As a Team Leader for a USDA-funded HIV program, she coordinated efforts of information management across three regions in Western part of Azerbaijan. Throughout her career, Gulshan has assumed various other roles including Training, Environment and LNGO Relation Specialist at CHF International, Health Education Manager at MSF Belgium and Medical Monitor at MSF Holland.

In addition to her fieldwork, Gulshan has completed various professional certifications in HSE, environmental assessment, and HIV/AIDS awareness. She participated in study tours and training programs focused on social investment and community health across multiple international platforms, such as the UNDP and the British Council.

She is fluent in Azerbaijani (native), English, Russian, Turkish and speaks basic French and Arabic.