Azi̇z Erden
About Azi̇z Erden
Aziz Erden serves as the Turkiye Food Security and Livelihoods Sector Coordinator-Emergency at the World Food Programme, focusing on earthquake response efforts. He has extensive experience in humanitarian assistance, having coordinated support for millions of beneficiaries and contributed to entrepreneurship initiatives in Türkiye.
Work at World Food Programme
Azi̇z Erden currently serves as the Turkiye Food Security and Livelihoods Sector Coordinator-Emergency for the World Food Programme, a position he has held since 2023. He is based in Gaziantep, Türkiye, where he focuses on the emergency response to the Turkiye earthquake. Prior to this role, he worked as the Head of Field Office and Recovery Program Manager in Hatay, Türkiye, for six years, starting in 2018. In these roles, he coordinated humanitarian assistance efforts that benefited millions, including 3.7 million individuals receiving hot meals and 1.1 million receiving food packages in 2023.
Education and Expertise
Azi̇z Erden earned his Bachelor's degree from Dicle University, where he studied in the Education Faculty from 1996 to 2000. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Mersin University, completing his studies in Social Sciences from 2018 to 2020. His educational background supports his expertise in food security and livelihoods, particularly in emergency response and recovery program management.
Background
Before joining the World Food Programme, Azi̇z Erden worked as a Speaking Examiner for Cambridge English Language Assessment from 2013 to 2018. His experience in this role contributed to his communication skills and ability to engage with diverse audiences. Additionally, he has consulted with both public and private organizations on development and employment projects, utilizing his diplomatic skills to build partnerships.
Achievements
In his current role, Azi̇z Erden has played a significant part in coordinating humanitarian efforts following the Turkiye earthquake. He conducted two assessments for food needs and one for market access, ensuring that responses are evidence-based. He has also contributed to entrepreneurship initiatives by guiding individuals on new business ideas and accessing micro-grants. His efforts have facilitated the development of a strategic vision and operational framework for the Food Security and Livelihoods sector.