The State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan
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Ms. Bahar Muradova will hold a meeting with citizens
Ms. Bahar Muradova, Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs, will meet with citizens on December 19, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Absheron District (in the city of Khirdalan). During the meeting, the concerns of residents from Absheron and Zangilan districts will be addressed.
A training on "Preventing Domestic Violence" was conducted for members of the monitoring and coordination group working to prevent domestic violence
On December 5, 2024, a training on the prevention of domestic violence was held in Lerik district, organized by the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, for members of the monitoring and coordination group for the prevention of domestic violence established in the Lankaran City Executive Power, Astara, Yardimli, Masalli, Jalilabad, Bilasuvar, Lerik District Executive Powers. Speaking, Sadagat Gahramanova, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee said that when carrying out their activities, the monitoring and coordination groups for the prevention of domestic violence established in district and city executive powers across the republic should be guided by the requirements of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On the Prevention of Domestic Violence", and measures should be taken to provide more flexible support to victims of violence, issue protection orders, and place victims in shelters if necessary. She stated that the changes made to the Law will have an effective impact on the fight against domestic violence if the responsible persons are familiar with them. Ms. Arzu Valimammedova, Head of the Department of Socio-Political and Humanitarian Issues of the Lerik District Executive Power, informed the participants of the event about the work done in the field of preventing domestic violence. Then, Ms. Vafa Alakbarova, Head of the Domestic Violence Prevention Sector of the Legal Support Department of the State Committee, provided information on the analysis of the response letters received by the State Committee regarding domestic violence, and made recommendations on eliminating shortcomings and taking necessary measures. At the training, Ms. Rahil Suleymanzade, an employee of the Domestic Violence Prevention Sector of the Legal Support Department the State Committee, made a presentation on the activities of monitoring and coordination groups in the field of preventing domestic violence and the measures to be taken at the legal level, and new amendments to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On the Prevention of Domestic Violence”. The training, which continued with an exchange of views and a question-and-answer session, included speeches by the chairmen of the monitoring and coordination groups in the field of prevention of domestic violence. Finally, the participants were presented with educational booklets titled "The Rights of Victims of Domestic Violence". It should be noted that trainings on the prevention of domestic violence will be held continuously in the Balakan, Agstafa and Khizi District Executive Authorities.
The VI All-Republican Forum of Azerbaijani Children has successfully concluded
Within the framework of the VI All-Republican Forum, a final presentation was held on the results of discussions in working groups on seven topics. The children's presentations included stories reflecting their thoughts on nature conservation and environmental awareness, which were compiled into a book to pass on to future generations. Other ideas included the creation of a mobile app to monitor children's health, increasing the role of schools in the "Learning with Nature" project, improving parent-child relationships within families, encouraging children to participate in volunteer activities, strengthening social connections among students in schools, and the opening of clubs to promote social-oriented activities. Additionally, the connection of patriotism with sustainable development, and strengthening volunteerism were also discussed. Proposals were also made, such as the establishment of online platforms like "Bright Youth," "Letters to the Homeland," and "Seda Journal," as well as the creation of the "My Voice is Heard" anonymous psychological support platform, the development of the "Friend of Knowledge" mobile app or website, the implementation of the "Friendly school" project, and the creation of the "Power of Ecological Change" ecological heroism book. In her closing speech, Bahar Muradova, Chair of the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs, expressed her thoughts on the participants' ideas and suggestions. She highly praised the results of the intense and productive discussions in such an important platform and emphasized that the children participating in the Forum have the ability to envision the future. The Chair of the State Committee noted that the children, who had the opportunity to participate in the Forum by being nominated, have lived up to the trust placed in them and have mastered the knowledge and skills imparted to them: "I felt proud listening to you. You truly are the guarantors of our present and future. If these positive outcomes are due to your reading and enthusiasm, we must also recognize the role of your families, parents, and teachers who have prepared you for life, taught you to love this country, benefit from its beauty and richness, and encouraged you to work for the future and today." Muradova also mentioned that the proposals voiced by the Forum participants were very important, useful, and interesting. She emphasized that each proposal is substantial enough to become a sustainable project. The State Committee will take the necessary steps to implement these purposeful initiatives. Following that, the participants of the Forum presented an appeal to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev. The Forum concluded with an appeal addressed to the children of Azerbaijan on behalf of the participants. The Forum ended with a concert program.
The first part of the VI All-Republican Forum of Azerbaijani Children has successfully concluded
On December 5, 2024, the opening ceremony of the VI All-Republican Forum of Azerbaijani Children, dedicated to the topic "Ecology and Children," was held in collaboration between the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs and the Ministry of Science and Education. The national anthem of Azerbaijan was played, and a moment of silence was observed in honor of the late national leader Heydar Aliyev and martyrs. Later Farah Aliyeva, Head of the Department of Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora, Multiculturalism, and Religious Affairs of the Presidential Administration delivered President Ilham Aliyev's message to the participants, a video titled "We Are Azerbaijani Children!" was shown. A gift was presented by children to President Ilham Aliyev, symbolizing the successful outcome of the 29th session of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) and the "Year of Solidarity for a Green World." In her opening speech, Bahar Muradova, the Chair of the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs, welcomed the participants and guests, thanked the President for his congratulatory message, and highlighted the importance of this attention and support for children as a great source of inspiration. She expressed her best wishes for the success of the first forum attended by children representing all regions of the country, which was held in a sovereign and territorially intact Azerbaijan. Muradova noted that the victory achieved by the Azerbaijani army opened new horizons for the country and posed important responsibilities for citizens to deserve the new development phase of the nation. She emphasized that children are the carriers of national and spiritual values and the guarantors of the future. She noted that the protection of children's rights is one of the priority areas of the state’s social policy. The legislation in this field is continuously improved, and various state programs are being implemented to ensure children's comprehensive development and welfare. Muradova described the forum as an excellent opportunity to discuss the most important issues of today and tomorrow, share children's ideas and initiatives, and unite efforts for a better society, a greener country, and a safer world. She highlighted the importance of children's participation in protecting their rights and emphasized the need to consider their opinions in the development of laws, state programs, and action plans. She noted that national forums have become an important platform for ensuring children's participation and protecting their interests. Addressing global issues like climate change, resource depletion, and environmental pollution, Muradova discussed the importance of ecological awareness and increasing children's participation in ecological projects to create a more sustainable environment. She also mentioned the demands raised by children at the COP29 roundtable, stressing that these demands would be taken into account in global climate change documents. In his speech, Minister of Science and Education Emin Amrullayev emphasized the importance of preserving identity, culture, and national values for the Azerbaijani people. He also highlighted the significance of educating girls, noting that in the past decade, girls have outperformed boys academically. He stressed the importance of providing every child with access to proper education. Rauf Hajiyev, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, mentioned that efforts are underway to develop a new climate strategy for the country, including increasing the use of renewable energy sources and developing more efficient energy technologies. He added that Azerbaijan has made significant steps toward transitioning to a "green economy." UNICEF Azerbaijan Representative Saja Faruq Abdullah emphasized that children and young people have the right to a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. He also discussed how the climate crisis is not only affecting the planet but also changing children's lives, futures, and opportunities. He mentioned that UNICEF had worked with partners in Azerbaijan to increase children's awareness of climate change and involved them in national and international climate-related events. The forum continued with a dialogue between children and official representatives. The participants, including Deputy Ministers and other prominent figures, answered children's questions during the discussions. In the second part of the forum, children will group by topics, engage in discussions, and present relevant proposals. At the end of the day, the results of the discussions will be shared, and a message will be addressed to President Ilham Aliyev. The event was attended by 300 children from all cities and districts of Azerbaijan, as well as children representing the Republic of Türkiye.
An educational meeting was held for students of the College of Economics and Humanities
On December 2, 2024, a informative meeting was held for the students of the Economy and Humanities College under Baku State University, located in the Absheron region. The event was organized by the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs with the support of the Ministry of Science and Education. During the meeting, the director of the college, Sahar Orujova, Daniz Valiyeva, an employee of the Family Affairs Department of the State Committee, and Ulkar Jamalova, a specialist from the Public Health and Reforms Center of the Ministry of Health, delivered presentations on the effects of narcotic substances and psychotropic drugs on human psychology and the severe consequences of harmful habits. Following the presentations, poet, publicist, and member of the Azerbaijan Writers’ Union, Gulkhani Panah, addressed the students, urging them to follow healthy lifestyle rules and stay away from harmful habits. He emphasized the importance of growing up as healthy individuals who contribute positively to their families and country. During the meeting, social videos titled "Goodbye My Friend" and "Family is a Tree" were shown. Additionally, educational brochures on the topic "We Say No to Drugs" were presented to the college library as informative resources.
Training was held for people with hearing and speech disabilities, organized by the State Committee
On December 3, 2024, a training session on the topic "Awareness on Domestic Violence Among People with Hearing and Speech Disabilities" was held at the Republic Special Boarding School No. 3 for Children with Disabilities. The aim of the training was to inform individuals with hearing and speech disabilities about domestic violence and its prevention. Later, Taliya Ibrahimova, the Head of the Legal Support Department of the State Committee, spoke about combating domestic violence, the negative legal and social consequences of violence, and provided information about the protection of the rights of individuals with hearing and speech disabilities. During the training, a video on "The Rights of Domestic Violence Victims" in sign language was presented, as well as a presentation on "The Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the Prevention of Domestic Violence and the Protection of Individuals Affected by Domestic Violence" and "Psychological Approach to Disabled Individuals Affected by Domestic Violence." At the end of the training, booklets translated into sign language titled "The Rights of Domestic Violence Victims" were distributed to individuals with hearing and speech disabilities. The training continued with a question-and-answer session.
A conference on the topic "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Bullying" was held to foster dialogue between government institutions and civil society
On December 2, 2024, a conference on "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Bullying" was organized by the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs. The conference focused on the dialogue between government institutions and civil society organizations. The event was held within the framework of the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" campaign and in observance of December 10 - International Human Rights Day. In her opening speech, Aynur Sofiyeva, Deputy Chair of the State Committee, stated that bullying is a problem that concerns not only individuals and families but society as a whole. Referring to the World Health Organization’s data, she highlighted that 20% of children and minors worldwide are either victims or participants in bullying. Sofiyeva emphasized that government agencies and civil society organizations should work in a coordinated manner to protect children and mobilize all their resources. Sofiyeva also mentioned that the "2020–2030 Strategy for Children in the Republic of Azerbaijan" outlines the state's objectives regarding child issues, with one of the key goals being the protection of children in difficult living conditions. She added that the Committee had undertaken the task of improving the legal framework in this area, and several documents had already come into force. She further noted that the "Law on the Rights of Children" of Azerbaijan is being revised to form a strong legal basis for the protection and development of children. The State Committee places special emphasis on enhancing the skills of professionals working with children and on fostering collaboration with non-governmental organizations. A survey on bullying in schools in Azerbaijan was conducted, and an analytical report titled "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Detecting Bullying" was prepared. The conference moderator, Taliya Ibrahimova, Director of the Legal Support Department at the State Committee, described bullying among minors as a social-psychological problem. She emphasized that the issue could be addressed if a legal mechanism, unified rules, and a professional approach were established. Elnur Aliyev, Head of the Department of Child and Youth Development Policy at the Ministry of Science and Education, drew attention to the relevance of the topic and highlighted the importance of preventive measures in the field. He mentioned that a concept document had been developed to address existing issues in child rights, including training programs for parents to create a healthy environment for children. He also noted that measures would be taken to prevent psychological issues and violence in schools, and monitoring would be strengthened. Narmina Huseynova, Deputy Director of the State Agency for Preschool and General Education, stated that bullying does not only originate from schools but also has a significant connection with the family. She pointed out that, starting from the 2023-2024 school year, 62 schools in Baku and 300 schools in the regions have implemented student behavior rules, with preliminary results showing positive effects. She emphasized that these rules would soon be applied nationwide. Imran Aliyev, Deputy Head of the Juvenile Preventive Work Department at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, emphasized that the elimination of aggressive behavior among minors could be achieved if parents, government agencies, and civil society work together as a team. At the conference, presentations were made by Kamala Ashumova, Chairperson of the Hopeful Future Social Initiatives Public Union, Asif Cahangirov, Honored Teacher and Professor at the International Academy of Humanist Pedagogy, and Nigar Ağayeva, Head of the Child Rights Protection Sector at the Ombudsman’s Office, who spoke about the involvement of civil society and educational institutions in addressing child rights issues and coordinating solutions to the problem. The conference also included a presentation of the analytical report titled "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Bullying," prepared by researcher Goshgar Maharramov under the State Committee’s order. The conference, which was attended by local executive authorities, psychologists, inspectors working with minors, school directors, and non-governmental organizations, included discussions and proposals on the subject.
Ms. Bahar Muradova received citizens in Agsu
According to the instructions of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, the heads of the central executive authorities receive citizens in the regions and take measures to positively resolve their appeals, applications and complaints related to various issues. In accordance with the prepared reception schedule, during the reception held on September 20, 2024, the appeals of residents of Agsu and Ismayilli districts were heard. Before the reception, the monument of National leader Heydar Aliyev was visited, flowers were placed in front of it, and deep respect was expressed to his dear memory. In the meeting held with the participation of the head of the relevant structural division of the State Committee, among the citizens' appeals were employment, targeted state social assistance, treatment of children, assistance in providing them with relevant documents and other issues. Appropriate assignments were given for the study of the raised issues and their short-term solution. Appeals requiring investigation were registered and processed.
The next training was held on the topic of "main working principles of the hotline"
In order to provide support to the population returning to the liberated territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and to implement their adaptation more efficiently, the next training was held under the organization of the State Committee on Family, Women and Children Affairs with the participation of the employees of the relevant state bodies on the topic of "The main working principles of the hotline". Mr. Parviz Aliyev, Head of sector on work with Centers of the Family Affairs Department of the State Committee informed about the work done within the framework of the Great Return State Program implemented in the territories liberated from occupation, and emphasized the importance of a professional and sensitive approach to the adaptation of the population returning to that territory and noted the importance of the responsibility of state institutions in this field in the training held on September 17-19, 2024. 22 people were involved, in the three-day training, including employees the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, the Social Services Agency, the Sustainable and Operational Social Security Agency, the State Employment Agency, the State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, Fuzuli, Zangilan, Jabrayil district and Shusha City Executive Authorities, Employees of medical institutions subordinated to the Management Union of Medical Territorial Units Ms.Kamala Ashumova, Chairperson of the "Hopeful Future" Public Union of Social Initiatives (PU), Ms. Fidan Akbarli, a psychologist of the Social Service Center, and Gulshan Akhundova, an employee of the Juvenile Justice Center provided detailed information on increasing the professional skills of personnel, managing psychological stress, effective communication techniques, ethical norms in the business environment, team building and individual approach, working principles of the hotline, international experience and other topics. Group work and role-playing games conducted during the training made it possible to increase the knowledge of the participants on the subject and to apply this knowledge professionally in real situations. At the end of the training, certificates were presented to the participants.
