The State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Media
News
The presentation of the album-book titled “National Clothing Heritage of Western Azerbaijanis” and the opening ceremony of the exhibition were held
The presentation of the album-book titled “National Clothing Heritage of Western Azerbaijanis” and the opening ceremony of the exhibition of the same name were held at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. The event was organized on the occasion of 8 March – International Women’s Day and 6 March – National Clothing Day. The ceremony was dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the birth of prominent artist Mirza Gadim Iravani, the founder of Azerbaijani easel painting. Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, Ms. Bahar Muradova, also delivered an opening speech at the event. Ms. Bahar Muradova noted that humanity develops and achieves its goals only in conditions of peace and stability. According to her, these values, formed throughout history, gain new shades over time and become even richer against the backdrop of rapid changes in the modern era. The Committee Chair emphasized that in such a dynamic environment, preserving cultural heritage reflecting the roots, identity, and existence of a nation is of particular importance. She stated that closer familiarity with the cultural heritage of ancestors who lived in Western Azerbaijan once again reveals the strong ties and historical truths that connect people to one another. In her speech, Ms. Bahar Muradova also touched upon the creative work of prominent artist Mirza Gadim Iravani, noting that the colors and artistic forms used in his works reflect the rich imagination of the Azerbaijani people, their outlook on life, and their ability to create harmony with the colors of nature. The Committee Chair further highlighted that throughout history, the Azerbaijani people have endured hardships while preserving their national identity and values. She expressed confidence that the people will return to their historical lands with dignity and that such cultural events will also be held in those territories in the future. It should be noted that the “National Clothing Heritage of Western Azerbaijanis” project was prepared at the initiative of the Women’s Council of the Western Azerbaijan Community.
A meeting was held within the framework of the “We Have a Dream” program
On March 2, 2026, an online meeting titled “Your Future is in Your Hands through Education” was held within the framework of the “We Have a Dream” Scholarship Program, organized by the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs. The meeting aimed to enhance the self-confidence of female applicants participating in the program, support them in defining their personal and educational goals, and strengthen their motivation ahead of the entrance examinations. During the event, Ms. Jeyran Rahmatullayeva, Chief of Staff of the Committee, delivered a speech highlighting the pivotal role of education in the lives of young girls. She emphasized that education is the most powerful tool for realizing one’s potential and encouraged young girls to believe in themselves, set clear goals, and pursue them with determination. She also noted that the “Support for the Education of Young Girls” project, implemented in cooperation with the State Committee, the Ministry of Science and Education, and the Education Development Fund, has been successfully ongoing since 2021, benefiting 294 young girls to date. The Chief of Staff further stated that the organization of a graduation ceremony for project participants with the participation of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, serves as a clear example of the high level of care and attention given to young girls. She added that several initiatives are being successfully implemented within the framework of the project, including the “Hanifa Malikova-Zardabi Scholarship Program,” the “Confident Steps into the Future” program supporting the education of martyrs’ wives, and the “We Have a Dream” Scholarship Program. She highlighted that the latter is carried out with the support of Kapital Bank to assist applicants from the regions in preparing for university admission. She also noted that the success of five participants who gained admission to higher education institutions this year serves as a strong source of motivation for other girls. Moreover, she emphasized that program participants can contribute to promoting girls’ access to education in the regions and to combating early marriage. Ms. Sabina Talishinskaya, Deputy Head of the Women and Gender Issues Department of the State Committee, also addressed the meeting, underscoring the importance of the program and highlighting the vital role of parents—especially mothers—in supporting their daughters. Additionally, Ms. Aytakin Guliyeva, an employee of the same department, presented key indicators related to the implementation of the program. The meeting continued in an interactive format with the participation of female applicants, students, and parents. During the event, young girls supported within the program, along with their parents, shared their views on the project and expressed their gratitude to the organizers and partners.
A citizens’ reception was held in Barda
The Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, Ms. Bahar Muradova, held a citizens’ reception in Barda region. Before the reception, the monument of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev was visited, floral tributes were laid, and deep respect was paid to his memory. During the reception, held on 20 February 2026, the concerns of residents from Barda and Tartar districts were heard. The issues raised included child support payments, legal assistance, treatment of children, family relations, communication with children, domestic violence, social benefits, and other matters. Each appeal was considered individually, with instructions given for the prompt resolution of the raised issues. Cases requiring further investigation were registered and placed under supervision.
Awareness-raising meetings on the benefits of using internet resources were held in Baku city and the regions
On 16–20 February 2026, awareness-raising events on the benefits of using internet resources were organized by the Shuvelan, Aghdam, Saatly, Sabirabad, Hajigabul, Zardab, Ismayilli, Gabala, Goygol, Goranboy, and Zagatala Child and Family Support Centers, operating under the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs. The events, held at educational institutions, were attended by the staff of the Centers, members of expert groups, teachers, students, and parents. During the events, experts delivered presentations on the benefits of using internet resources and also informed participants about potential cyber threats that children may face online, methods of protection against such threats, rules for safe and proper internet use, and other relevant information. As part of the interactive sessions, a video titled “How to Use the Parental Control Function on Mobile Phones” was screened, and booklets entitled “Let’s Be Informed for Safe Internet Use” were distributed.
An awareness-raising seminar on parental responsibility in preventing drug addiction was held
On 19 February 2026, an awareness-raising seminar on the topic “Parental Responsibility in the Prevention of Drug Abuse” was held at Secondary School No. 2 named after Nasimi in Balakan city, organized by the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs with the support of the Balakan District Executive Authority. The event was held in accordance with the relevant clause of the “State Program on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and their Precursors.” Parents, heads of educational institutions, teachers and psychologists participated in the seminar. Opening the event with introductory remarks, the school director Ms. Vafa Emchiyeva emphasized the relevance of the topic, the dangers that narcotic substances pose to adolescents, and the importance of preventive measures. She particularly highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between parents and schools. Mr. Hasan Aliyev, an employee of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, delivered a presentation on the topic, providing detailed information about the harmful effects of narcotic drugs on society and human health, as well as the measures taken to combat this issue. Afterwards, Ms. Arzu Aliyeva, a representative of the Balakan District Executive Authority and a psychologist, spoke about the psychological causes of drug addiction, risk factors and the importance of early intervention. During the seminar, representatives of the Children’s Ambassadors Assembly, operating within the framework of the Committee’s project, shared their views on the effective organization of children’s leisure time. At the end of the seminar, participants’ questions were answered and an exchange of views on the topic was held.
Patriotism and National Spirit
On February 18, 2026, an event on “Patriotism and National Spirit” was held for upper-grade students at the No. 2 E. Abdullayev Boarding Technical and Natural Sciences Lyceum in Oghuz, organized by the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs in accordance with the relevant provision of the “Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Children for 2020–2030.” In her opening remarks, the school principal, Ms. Gamza Suleymanova, spoke about the purpose and significance of the event, emphasizing the importance of shaping young people based on national and moral values. Following this, Ms. Kishvar Aliyeva, mother of Anar Aliyev, who heroically died in the battles for the liberation of Fuzuli district, addressed the students, calling on youth to become loyal citizens, united, and committed to preserving national values. Mr. Hasan Aliyev, a representative of the State Committee, spoke about the importance of a proper civic stance and responsible behavior in shaping youth with a strong national spirit. He also highlighted the significance of protecting the mother tongue and national-moral values. Mr. Nicat Karimov, a representative of the Oghuz District Executive Authority, noted that youth participation in volunteer and social initiatives contributes to strengthening national spirit. During the event, representatives of the Child Ambassadors Council from Oghuz district shared information about their activities. The event continued in an interactive format, with participants’ questions answered and discussions held on the topic.
A collegium meeting dedicated to the 2025 activities of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs was held
On February 13, 2026, the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs held a collegium meeting dedicated to summarizing the results of the previous year. The meeting discussed the activities carried out in 2025, the results achieved, as well as upcoming tasks, and adopted relevant decisions. In line with the agenda, the Chairperson of the State Committee, Ms. Bahar Muradova, delivered a presentation on the outcomes of the Committee’s work in 2025. She spoke about the implementation of family, women, and child policies, the legislative improvements made, and the projects carried out. She also provided information on the events organized within the framework of the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty,” and presented analytical findings and several statistical indicators. Ms. B. Muradova stated that three important draft documents were approved last year, and five draft normative legal acts were prepared and submitted for approval. She emphasized that consolidated reports had been submitted regarding the implementation of the Communication Strategy Action Plan for 2024–2026, the state of ensuring children's rights, and the implementation of awareness-raising measures on the negative consequences of early and consanguineous marriages. She also noted that four analytical reports had been prepared—on the risk map of early marriages, factors influencing suicide among adolescents, the socio-economic impacts on the family institution, and adolescents’ understanding of legal rights. In addition, monitoring had been conducted in 17 child institutions, and she presented the main findings. Referring to Article 20 of the Law “On Ensuring Gender Equality between Men and Women,” Ms. B. Muradova stated that the Committee’s 2024 annual report had been submitted to the Milli Majlis (National Assembly), discussed, adopted, and shared with over 200 organizations. She added that monitoring and coordination mechanisms on domestic violence had been strengthened, with 30% more protection orders issued compared to 2023. The Chairperson also highlighted that the Secretariat of the Commission on the Rights of the Child had been established last year, institutional coordination in this field had been strengthened, and cooperation with mediation institutions, local self-governance bodies, and higher education institutions had been expanded. Speaking about major steps taken in the field of women’s empowerment and gender issues, Ms. B. Muradova emphasized the important initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s capacities and skills. She mentioned projects supporting girls’ education, such as the “Hanifa Malikova-Zardabi Scholarship Program,” the “You Are Not Alone” support project for the wives of martyrs, and the “We Have a Dream” program, noting that a total of 294 participants had benefited from these projects over five years. Highlighting the Committee’s active engagement in international cooperation, the Chairperson stated that partnerships with international organizations and foreign counterparts had been further expanded. She mentioned initiatives presented at international events and platforms and noted strengthened coordination with the working groups on implementing the recommendations of the CEDAW and the Committee on the Rights of the Child. At the end of her speech, Ms. B. Muradova presented annual statistics on citizen appeals received by the Committee, as well as on the activities of the Child and Family Support Centers and the organization of open-door days. At the meeting, the Chairperson of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, Ms. Ramila Seyidova, delivered a speech outlining the work carried out in Nakhchivan in accordance with state policy in this area. She presented statistical indicators related to the implementation of relevant legal documents and state programs adopted during the year and mentioned the wide-ranging awareness campaigns on family, women, and children issues, as well as work with families in conflict and people in difficult life situations carried out within the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty.” The second item on the agenda focused on the Committee’s work plan for the first half of 2026. The Chief of Staff of the Committee, Ms. Jeyran Rahmatullayeva, presented the planned activities, noting that efforts would continue to promote family values, ensure gender equality, protect children’s rights, improve the legal and regulatory framework, and strengthen cooperation with the public. The meeting also discussed the implementation of the “National Action Plan on Gender Equality for 2026–2028.” Deputy Chairperson Ms. Sadagat Gahramanova presented the planned activities under this document, noting that the Action Plan aims to enhance legal and institutional mechanisms for ensuring gender equality, increase women’s socio-economic participation, and strengthen the fight against discrimination. The Plan envisions the integration of a gender-sensitive approach in education, employment, climate change, and media sectors, as well as the strengthening of coordination groups at central and local levels. Another item on the agenda concerned the upcoming conference titled “Sustainable Development: Family, Women, and Child Policy.” Deputy Chairperson Ms. Aynur Sofiyeva spoke about the purpose and expected outcomes of the conference, emphasizing the importance of forming strategic priorities and transitioning to a new stage in policy implementation. She stated that the conference would contribute to a systematic, multidisciplinary, and future-oriented approach, and announced that preparatory work had begun and a Working Group had been established for its organization. The next issue discussed was the organization of the international conference “Empowering Women’s Voices in the AQEM Space for Sustainable Development” and the first meeting of the CICA Women’s Council. The Head of the Foreign Relations and Protocol Department, Mr. Nureddin Babazade, provided information about the significance and organizational aspects of the event. Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Family, Women, and Children Affairs, Ms. Hijran Huseynova, praised the State Committee’s performance and the work carried out during the reporting period. She noted that since its establishment, the Committee has consistently worked toward protecting the family institution, strengthening the women’s movement, and safeguarding children’s rights. She added that the Committee actively engages other state and non-state institutions in its work and implements large-scale joint projects. Ms. Bahar Muradova, emphasized the importance of ensuring the timely and high-quality implementation of the tasks ahead. She underlined the need for consistent and systematic execution of the adopted decisions, strengthening coordination among relevant institutions, and further intensifying efforts in the identified priority areas.
The new draft law “On the Rights of the Child” has been adopted in the first reading
On February 10, 2026, during the plenary session of the Parliament, the newly drafted law “On the Rights of the Child” was submitted for discussion and adopted in the first reading by the Milli Majlis. During the discussion of the draft law on the agenda of the plenary session, it was noted that the draft was prepared by the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs in accordance with Part 2 of Decree No. 524s of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated June 24, 2023, which ensures the implementation of Decree No. 3914 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated June 9, 2023, on amending the Action Plan for the Implementation of the Strategy on Children for 2020–2025, approved by Decree No. 2306 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on November 27, 2020. Ms. Hicran Huseynova, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Family, Women, and Child Issues, provided information about the draft law, highlighting that while the existing law consisted of 5 chapters and 45 articles, the new draft establishes children’s rights in 8 chapters and 63 articles.
Ms. Bahar Muradova delivered a speech at an international conference held in Cairo
Ms. Bahar Muradova, Chair of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, who is on a visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, participated in a conference held in Cairo on the topic “The Use of Religious and Media Discourse and Its Impact on the Protection and Promotion of Women’s Rights in OIC Member States.” Within the framework of the conference, Ms.Bahar Muradova answered questions during a session titled “The Role of Media, Culture, and the Arts in Shaping Public Awareness of Women’s Positive Roles,” noting that media, culture, and the arts carry strategic importance in promoting women’s rights. The Committee Chair emphasized that these fields are not merely channels for transmitting information, but also “soft power” tools that serve to shape public consciousness, change behavioral patterns, and promote gender equality. Referring to Azerbaijan’s experience, B. Muradova noted that through media and digital platforms, women are presented as active actors in public, economic, and political life, adding that topics such as women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding, and partnership within the family are systematically brought to the public agenda. B. Muradova stressed that activities in the fields of media and culture are implemented in a coordinated manner as part of a unified state policy, and that this approach creates conditions for the sustainable strengthening of women’s positive image. Noting that the formation of a positive image of women is possible not only through cultural representation but also through their active participation in real decision-making processes, the Committee Chair highlighted that Azerbaijan applies a consistent approach in this direction, identifying the promotion of girls’ education as a key starting point. She noted that the opening of the first secular girls’ school in the East in Azerbaijan was an important milestone in legitimizing women’s public role, and that this enlightenment tradition continues today. Under the coordination of the State Committee, awareness-raising activities are carried out in the regions, early marriage risks are reduced, and dialogue with parents is conducted. At the same time, increasing women’s representation in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches is implemented as one of the priority areas of state policy. B. Muradova stated that the activities of women leaders, including First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva and Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova, create real role models for the younger generation. At the same time, women’s entrepreneurship, employment, and social projects strengthen women’s economic independence. In the international arena, women’s active participation in diplomacy, humanitarian initiatives, and the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda contributes to reinforcing Azerbaijan’s modern and inclusive image. Ms.Bahar Muradova noted that this consistent and systematic model can be assessed as a practical example adaptable for other countries within the OIC space. The conference continued with sessions. Afterwards, Bahar Muradova answered questions from the Egyptian media.