Azerbaijan commits to mainstream gender in all State programmes and legislation to help working women (updated)

The Government of Azerbaijan actively undertakes measures to distribute opportunities equitably and to support the equal and balanced participation of women and men in public and social life. Specific budgetary allocations have been made to ensure a steady increase in the gender mainstreaming process and all State programmes and services committed to ensure gender equality at all levels and all spheres.

The country is working to ensure more girls pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It pledges to introduce new legislation to help working women—including flexible working and accessible childcare.

The country will actively support the development and implementation of specific programmes, projects and activities aimed at improving the enjoyment by women and girls of their fundamental human rights.

Azerbaijan is prioritizing re-integration of refugee women into society, promoting their participation in political, economic and public life and addressing the causes of, and impunity for, sexual violence in conflict as a central element of all discussions on the peace and security agenda.

Calling for the implementation and reinforcement of international initiatives and conventions on women rights, Azerbaijan also commits to do everything it can to ensure a safe future for women. [ Commitment statement ]

Developments since Azerbaijan’s commitment

Since 2015, the government of Azerbaijan has implemented a number of projects related to the education and training of various stakeholders as well as the general public on issues such as combating violence against women and girls, protecting women and children with disabilities, preventing human trafficking, promoting women’s reproductive health, and improving women’s economic participation.

The Joint Plan of Action on the Prevention of Domestic Violence (2016–2018) was signed by a number of national ministries aims to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation on violence prevention and response.

A number of measures have been taken for the economic empowerment of youth, particularly young women, within the framework of the State Program on the Implementation of the Employment Strategy, such as promoting their employment in the tourism sector, establishing a network of business centres, and providing financial literacy training. [ Full update ]