The Jews who inhabit Azerbaijan are divided into two groups: the Ashkenazim and the Mountain Jews. Ashkenazim first settled in Azerbaijan in the 19^th century as part of Czarist Russia’s attempt to bring Russian culture into the region. A second wave Ashkenazim, who were fleeing from the Nazis arrived during World War II. The Mountain Jews, whose roots extend back 2,000 years, speak a distinct dialect called Juhari, a northern Iranian language. They are a deeply traditional and close-knit community.

Throughout the Soviet years, the Mountain Jews were forced to rid their language of its Hebrew elements and close all cultural institutions. Yet they displayed remarkable resilience, clinging steadfastly to Jewish traditions and values.

In recent years, their country was torn apart by war with Armenia. Though their land is rich in oil, iron, copper and other natural resources, poor infrastructure and corruption threaten any real economic progress. Pollution and massive overuse of pesticides have nearly devastated the environment.

With the fall of communism in the former Soviet Union, JDC was able to establish a strong and growing presence in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. Between 1989 and 2001, 33,453 Jews from Azerbaijan made aliyah. Today, nearly 14,000 Jews reside in Baku, amid a troubled economy.

2005