2. Current cultural affairs
Azerbaijan
Last update: April, 2025
A sustainably growing competitive economy, a dynamic, inclusive and socially just society; a competitive human capital and a space for modern innovations; a great return to the liberated territories; and a country of clean environment and “green growth” are five national priorities according to Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development (No.2469 of February 2, 2021).
The I State Program on the Great Return to the Liberated Territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No. 3587 of November 16, 2022) aims to facilitate the rapid reconstruction and revitalisation of the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions, as well as the sustainable settlement of the population and promote economic development. The State Program's important activities include revitalising cultural life, restoring cultural infrastructure and heritage sites, including restoration, conservation, reconstruction, and regeneration works at historical and cultural monuments; construction and restoration of entirely or partially destroyed museums; implementation of measures related to the creation of the Occupation and Victory Museum complexes; taking measures to re-establish cultural institutions, facilities, and artistic collectives to organise cultural services; holding cultural events and projects, including festivals and poetry days; et cetera.
As a result of the monitoring and inventory work carried out during 2023-2024, 354 monuments were inventoried, and 402 objects of historical, architectural, and archaeological significance were identified. One hundred sixty-nine monuments were identified as needing restoration and conservation work at the initial stage, and the amount of material damage to 434 monuments in the liberated territories was calculated. During the inventory work, field research was conducted, electronic maps of the monuments were prepared, high-quality photography and drone filming was undertaken, archival documents were examined, and other relevant sources were reviewed. The inventory of historical monuments in the liberated territories has already been completed, and their restoration has begun.
The Uzeyir Hajibeyli House Museum in Shusha, the Shusha branch of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, the Bulbul House Museum in Shusha, and the Aghdam İmarat Complex have been restored. Work continues on two projects: the restoration of the State Drama Theatre building in Khankendi and the restoration of the Askeran Fortress Complex in the Khojaly region.
The creation, design, and content preparation of the Occupation and Victory Museum complexes in the cities of Aghdam, Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Zangilan, Kalbajar, Gubadli, Lachin, Shusha, and Khankendi are ongoing.
On March 12, 2024, the opening ceremony of the Kurmangazy Children's Creativity Centre, constructed in the city of Fuzuli at the initiative and under the financing of the Republic of Kazakhstan, took place. The centre offers courses and clubs in art and sculpture, carpet weaving, choreography, vocals, music, web design, photography and videography, robotics, 3D modelling, cooking, chess, and more.
On November 5, 2024, the opening ceremony of the Aghdam Mugham Centre took place. The Centre have classrooms, concert halls, performance halls, an open-air amphitheatre, and other necessary infrastructure.
The “Khari Bulbul” International Music Festival (May 9-11, 2023 and May 11-13, 2024) and Vagif Poetry Days (July 14-15, 2023 and July 17-19, 2014) were jointly organised in Shusha City by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture and the Shusha City State Reserve Department.
Last update: April, 2025
Fundamental rights, including cultural rights, in the Republic of Azerbaijan are defined within the legislative system, consisting of the following normative-legal acts: the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.00 of November 12, 1995); acts adopted by referendum; laws; decrees of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan; decisions of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan; normative acts of central executive bodies. Additionally, international agreements to which the Republic of Azerbaijan is a party are integral to the country's legislative system. Individual professional or creative groups can also establish their own internal ethical rules, as outlined in their internal statutes.
The Constitution defines the fundamental rights and freedoms that underlie cultural rights and serves as the foundation for these rights. The Constitution enshrines cultural rights, including rights to intellectual property, culture, education, national identity, the use of one's native language, and the protection of honour and dignity. Constitutional freedoms are freedom of thought, speech, conscience, information, and creative activity. At the same time, the Constitution defines the fundamental duties of citizens. A noteworthy fact is Article 77 of the Constitution, which states, "Every citizen shall have the duty to protect historical and cultural monuments."
The Law on Culture (No.506-IVQ of December 21, 2012), in more detail, dwells on cultural rights, the definition and regulation of which is devoted to an entire Chapter 3 ("Main human and civil rights in the field of culture") and such articles as:
- The right to participate in cultural life;
- The right to cultural identity;
- Freedom of creativity;
- The right to cultural activities abroad;
- Property rights in the field of culture;
- Foreign trade in cultural assets;
- The right to entrepreneurship in the field of culture;
- The right to use cultural institutions and cultural property;
- The right to education in the field of culture;
- Non-governmental organisations in the field of culture; and
- Freedom of information in the field of culture.
The law provides that everyone's rights and freedoms in the field of culture in the Republic of Azerbaijan are guided by the principles and norms of international law. Therefore, the state guarantees everyone the right to exercise their rights and freedoms in the field of culture, regardless of gender, race, language, religion, political beliefs, nationality, social status, social origin, health, opportunities, and membership in public associations. The state ensures the equality of cultures, rights, and freedoms of peoples and national minorities living within its territory, as well as the equality of peoples and national minorities in preserving their culture, determining their cultural identity, and restoring, strengthening, and developing their cultural heritage. Additionally, cultural rights should not exceed the Prohibitions in the field of culture established by Article 43 of the Law on Culture. Therefore, the following actions are not allowed in the area of culture:
- To conduct propaganda that may harm the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitutional order, economic, defence, scientific and technical potential and national interests of the Republic of Azerbaijan;
- To hold cultural events aimed at propagating and promoting war, social, racial, national, religious, class and generational superiority;
- To hold cultural events aimed at calling for the promotion and encouragement of violence, pornography and drugs;
- Illegal export of samples of national cultural heritage from the territory of the Azerbaijan Republic;
- Restriction of fundamental human and civil rights and freedoms in the field of culture, regardless of race, nationality, religion, language, social origin, the position of service, beliefs, and affiliation to public associations;
- The use of cultural and natural heritage incompatible with its historical and artistic purpose;
- Copying of cultural values and their use for tourism, excursion and advertising purposes without the consent of the owner or user;
- Demolition, destruction, fragmentation, reorganisation, relocation and change of appearance of cultural values.
In the context of the paragraph, mention should also be made of the Law on the Rules of Ethical Conduct of Civil Servants (No.352-IIIQ of May 31, 2007), which explicitly obliges civil servants (including those in the field of culture) to adhere to professional, ethical, and cultural behaviour.
Last update: April, 2025
The Law on Culture (No.506-IVQ of December 21, 2012) defines a creative person as an individual who creates cultural values, including pedagogical and scientific research activities within the cultural sector. Protecting the rights of creative individuals operating in both state and private cultural institutions and implementing creative activities are among the main directions of state policy in culture. Moreover, the organisation of incentives for cultural workers and creative individuals for their services and contributions to cultural development is among the state's duties in the cultural field. Creative persons, legal entities, cultural institutions and non-governmental organisations may be the subjects of cultural activity. Article 24 of the law states, "Anyone can engage in professional or amateur creative activities. The state supports creative activity in the Republic of Azerbaijan. The state takes economic measures to develop professional creativity".
The Law on Non-Governmental Organizations (Public Associations and Foundations) (No.894-IQ of June 13, 2000) determines the rules for establishing, operating, reorganising, and liquidating non-governmental organisations as legal entities and their relations with public authorities.
The Rules for Preparation, Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of State Programs (No.1294 of March 6, 2021) requires that public hearings and discussions must be provided during the preparation of the draft of any state programs, strategies, national action plans, concepts and other similar documents, including in the field of culture. Furthermore, the Law on Public Participation (№ 816-IVQ of November 22, 2013) prescribes such public hearings and discussions.
A multi-branched system of creative unions continues to function and operate mainly as professional unions and play an essential role in cultural life as well as in preparation strategies to stimulate employment and a better social situation for artists and cultural professionals:
- The Azerbaijan Writers' Union, established in 1934, is the largest public organisation of Azerbaijani writers, poets, and translators.
- The Azerbaijan Composers' Union (established in 1934) unites in its ranks highly qualified professional composers and musicologists;
- The Azerbaijan Architects' Union (established in 1934) focuses on improving the effectiveness of all types of architectural work, developing architectural and urban planning activities, strengthening international cooperation and developing national culture;
- The Azerbaijan Cinematographers' Union (established in 1963) is a public organisation that voluntarily unites professional creative cinema workers in Azerbaijan;
- The Azerbaijan Artists' Union (established in 1940) is a public creative organisation of professional artists and art critics;
- The Azerbaijan Theatre Workers' Union, founded in 1897 as the "Union of Actors", is an extensive public organisation uniting theatrical figures in Azerbaijan;
- The Azerbaijan Ashiq Union (established in 1982) is an independent public organisation that develops and promotes the Art of Ashiq.
Last update: April, 2025
According to the country's general state policy on digital development, implementing new information and communication technologies in the cultural sector is a key priority of Azerbaijan's national cultural policy. The Socio-Economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022-2026 (No.3378 of July 22, 2022) outlines tasks for digitalising Azerbaijani culture through "e-culture." In this regard, by Decision No. 3/2 of the Collegium of the Ministry of Culture dated October 13, 2023, the Ministry of Culture's "e-Culture" Digital Development Strategy (2024-2026) was adopted, and 100+ measures were planned to be implemented by 2026 under 10 priorities, such as Application of new technologies and technological innovations in the field of culture; Strengthening and ensuring the relevance of ICT infrastructure; Improving the regulatory and legal framework for the digitisation of culture; Electronification and integration of services in the field of culture; Formation of a data-based digital management model, its implementation and creation of forecasting opportunities through analytical tools; Improvement of information resources (systems, resources and registers), formation, integration and ensuring the relevance of new resources; Development of relevant modules for each cluster of the cultural sector and implementation of a unified administration policy for various modules; Migration to the “Government Cloud” (“G-Cloud”); Cybersecurity, licensing and personal data protection in the field of culture; and Formation of digital culture, specialisation of personnel potential.
Within the framework of the “e-Culture” strategy, recently:
- The Ministry of Culture’s “e-Culture” unified personal cabinet was formed, and all relevant resources were integrated into the cabinet,
- Integration into information systems across the country (“Digital Login”, “Digital Document Circulation”, “Normative legal acts”, etc.) was implemented,
- The relevant information systems of the Ministry of Culture, where personal data is collected and processed, were included in the “State Register of Information Systems of Personal Data”;
- The relevant information systems and resources of the Ministry of Culture were fully migrated to the “Government Cloud” infrastructure;
- For the first time in the history of the Ministry of Culture, “Admission of students to art schools and centres”, “Additional admission of students to priority specialities”, “Admission of teachers”, “Additional admission of teachers to vacant positions” and “Admission of directors and deputy directors” were carried out electronically through relevant information systems;
- 50,000+ “e-Applications” were received, processed and responded to under 10 “e-Application” modules;
- A new official Internet information resource of the Ministry of Culture, “culture.gov.az”, was formed, necessary audits were conducted together with relevant agencies, and its placement in the Information Resource Centre for State Institutions under the control of the Special Communication and Information State Service was ensured;
- For the first time in the history of the Ministry of Culture, a digital analytical analysis was conducted on five processes and data-based decision-making was ensured;
- Digitalization of internal management processes in 6 directions was initiated.
As a continuation of the activities carried out within the framework of the “e-Culture” strategy, the Formation of a Unified Cultural Register, which includes many sub-registers; Expansion of activities on the formation of information resources, electronification of services and applications; Increasing integration into information systems across the country; Expansion of the functionality of the “MyCulture” unified personal cabinet “v2.0”; Diversification of the digitalisation of internal management processes, etc. is planned to be implemented, and the necessary activities have already been initiated in the mentioned directions.
The Digital Development Concept in the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.287 of January 16, 2025) aims to enhance public administration, stimulate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for citizens by adopting digital technologies.
The Artificial Intelligence Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2025–2028 (dated March 19, 2025) involves the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Academy, improving information technologies and their management mechanisms for artificial intelligence, ensuring the accessibility of its infrastructure, strengthening the potential of qualified personnel, etc.
Last update: April, 2025
The multinational and multi-confessional nature of the Azerbaijan population is an essential aspect of intercultural dialogue, one of the national cultural policy priorities. The fundamental spirit of the national policy stems from the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.00 of November 12, 1995), which proclaims that all citizens are equal, regardless of their ethnic or racial origin. The Law on Joining the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (No.95-IQ of May 31, 1996) has been incorporated into the Law on Culture (No.506-IVQ of December 21, 2012) and other relevant laws. The Law on Accession to the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (No. 897-IQ of June 16, 2000) was adopted in 2000. The leading public actor responsible for implementing programs and policies to promote intercultural dialogue in the Republic of Azerbaijan at national and local policy levels is the Ministry of Culture, which closely cooperates with other state bodies, depending on the matter under consideration.
The Ministry of Culture has implemented the "Cultural Diversity in Azerbaijan" project to highlight the country's rich ethnic and cultural diversity. It involved the cultural associations of the various national minorities and helped realise one of its chief strategic aims – developing and supporting intercultural dialogue. Another significant event, the traditional festival "Azerbaijan – my motherland", was organised by the Ministry of Culture in November 2006, October 2008, November 2011, June 2014, and June 2016. Scientific conferences, photo exhibitions, preliminary concert performances, and gala concerts held within the framework of the festivals attracted thousands of participants from various regions, representing nearly all national minorities and ethnic groups residing in Azerbaijan.
In 2009, the Republic of Azerbaijan joined the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (No.918-IIIQ of November 26, 2009). Furthermore, establishing the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre, as outlined in the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.167 of May 15, 2014), testifies to the country's commitment to tolerance and multiculturalism. 2016 was declared the Year of Multiculturalism in the Republic of Azerbaijan to preserve, develop, and promote multicultural traditions, mutual understanding, and dialogue.
The Baku Process is rooted in Azerbaijan's unique interregional characteristics, which stem from its geographical location, social and political aspirations, and rich historical and cultural traditions. Proceeding from this, with the modern Republic of Azerbaijan being, at that time, the only state member of both the Council of Europe and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), the Baku Process was initiated by the Republic of Azerbaijan to bring these regions closer.
Formalising the Baku Process involved three initial stages:
- Organising a Council of Europe Conference of Culture Ministers in Baku, to which ICESCO and several of its member states were invited (December 2-3, 2008), on the theme of "Intercultural Dialogue as a Basis for Peace and Sustainable Development in Europe and its Neighbouring Regions".
- Holding an IСESCO Conference of Culture Ministers in Baku, to which the Council of Europe and some of its member states were invited (October 13-15, 2009), following the celebration of Baku as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for 2009.
- Establishing a biennial Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue with the participation of relevant intergovernmental organisations, culture ministers, and people worldwide.
The Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue has taken responsibility for delivering the following:
- The Global Agenda on the Dialogue among Civilisations adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (2001),
- The UNESCO Convention on Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (2005),
- The ICESCO Islamic Declaration on Cultural Diversity (2004),
- The Declaration and the Action Plan of the Third Summit of Heads of States and Governments of the Council of Europe (2005),
- The Council of Europe's White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue (2008),
- The Baku Declaration for the Promotion of Intercultural Dialogue (2008).
In cooperation with UNESCO, the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the UN World Tourism Organization, the Council of Europe, and ICESCO, with the participation of culture ministers of numerous states, heads of leading international organisations, mayors of various world cities, diplomats, media organisations, international NGOs, scientists, scholars, distinguished cultural experts, practitioners, intellectuals and activists, the Republic of Azerbaijan has already hosted:
- The First Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on "United Through Common Values, Enriched by Cultural Diversity" (April 7-9, 2011);
- The Second Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on the subject of "Living Together Peacefully in a Diverse World" (May 29 - June 1, 2013);
- The Third Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue dedicated to the theme "Sharing Culture for Shared Security" (May 18-19, 2015);
- The Fourth Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on the subject "Advancing Intercultural Dialogue: New Avenues for Human Security, Peace and Sustainable Development" (May 5–6, 2017);
- The Fifth Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on "Building dialogue into action against discrimination, inequality, and violent conflict" (May 2–3, 2019);
- The Sixth Baku World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on “Dialogue for Peace and Global Security: Cooperation and Interconnectivity” (May 1-3, 2024).
Last update: April, 2025
According to the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.00 of November 12, 1995), the state assists in developing education, supervises the education system, and establishes minimum educational standards. The state education system in the Republic of Azerbaijan is secular. Every citizen has the right to education, and the state ensures the right to free, compulsory, general secondary education. The state ensures that talented individuals can pursue their education regardless of their financial circumstances. Everyone has the right to be raised and educated in the language of their choice. The state guarantees everyone the equality of rights and freedoms, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, language, sex, origin, property status, service position, beliefs, membership in political parties, trade unions and other public associations. It is prohibited to restrict the rights and freedoms of individuals based on race, ethnicity, religion, language, sex, origin, beliefs, or political or social affiliation.
By the Law On Education (No.833-IIIQ of June 19, 2009) the state ensures the creation of appropriate conditions for every citizen to receive education and does not allow the deprivation of any stage, level, or form of education; guarantees the opportunity to receive education for every citizen and the non-discrimination of all citizens, regardless of gender, race, language, religion, political beliefs, ethnic affiliation, social status, origin, or health conditions; irrespective of the form of ownership, ensures equal opportunities for men and women in recruitment, appointment or selection to positions, labour incentives, admission to educational institutions, provision of scholarships to students, selection of specialities, assessment of the knowledge, employment of graduates, a continuation of education at the next level, improvement of qualifications, and other issues in the field of education; ensures that talented individuals continue their education, regardless of their financial situation, and creates conditions for those needing social protection to receive education.
The language of instruction in the Republic of Azerbaijan's educational institutions is the state language, Azerbaijani. Taking into account the wishes of citizens and founders of educational institutions, following international treaties to which the Republic of Azerbaijan is a party or an agreement with a body determined by the relevant executive authority, education in educational institutions may be conducted in other languages based on corresponding state educational standards or internationally accredited educational programs. Educational institutions in languages other than Azerbaijani must teach the Azerbaijani language, literature, history, and geography; for students with limited knowledge of the language of instruction, preparatory classes and courses are organised according to the procedure determined by the relevant executive authority and educational programs.
Intercultural education is part of the secondary school and university curricula; shared national values and identity, promotion of tolerance, multilingualism, equality, world cultures, religions, traditions, etc., are delivered at all levels of education within humanitarian disciplines, the subject "Azerbaijani Multiculturalism" is included in the curricula of higher education institutions. Education is conducted in 4,086 schools in Azerbaijani, 16 schools in Russian, and six in Georgian. Education in 312 schools is Azerbaijani-Russian, in 9 schools is Azerbaijani-Russian-English, in 3 schools are Azerbaijani-Georgian, in 1 school is Azerbaijani-Russian-Georgian languages. 0.2% of students receive education in other languages (English, Turkish, French). English is taught as a foreign language in 3,745 schools, Russian in 3,090, French in 344, German in 233, Arabic in 16, and Persian in 8. Minority languages, such as Lezgi, Talysh, Hebrew, Avar, Sahur, Udin, Kurdish, and Khinalig, are taught in secondary schools in some areas of the country. For example, the Lezgi language is taught in 101 schools, the Talysh language in 252 schools, the Avar language in 19 schools, the Sahur language in 4 schools, the Udin language in 3 schools, and Kurdish, Khinalig, and Hebrew in 1 school each. In total, 29,942 students belonging to national minorities learn their native language in schools.
Last update: April, 2025
The legislative framework for media, media pluralism and content diversity is based on the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.00 of November 12, 1995), Article 50 (Freedom of information), which establishes that “Everyone is free to legally seek, receive, impart, produce, and disseminate any information. Freedom of mass information is guaranteed. State censorship in mass media, including the press, is prohibited. Everyone’s right to refute or reply to information published in mass media, which may violate their rights or damage their interests, shall be guaranteed. The Law on Media (No.471-VIQ of December 30, 2021) establishes the organisational, legal, and economic foundations of media sector activities, as well as the general rules for obtaining, preparing, transmitting, producing, and broadcasting mass information. Laws On Obtaining Information (No.1024-IIQ of September 30, 2005), On Freedom of Information (No.505-IQ of June 19, 1998), On Telecommunication (No.927-IIQ of June 14, 2005), On Public Television and Radio Broadcasting (No.767-IIQ of September 28, 2004), On Protection of Children from Harmful Information (No.1310-VQ of October 30, 2018), On Information, Informatization and Information Protection (No.460-IQ of April 3, 1998) and On Personal Data (No.998-IIIQ of May 11, 2010) also must be mentioned in this line.
Concept of State Support for the Development of Mass Media in the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.2957 of 31 July 2008) defines the basic principles, forms, means and areas of state support for the development of mass media, as well as the conditions for allocating financial resources, following the requirements of civil society.
The country's media landscape comprises over 5,000 mass communication media outlets owned by various political and public organisations, private organisations, and individuals registered in Azerbaijan. The country publishes approximately 40 daily newspapers, over 200 weekly and monthly newspapers, and more than 80 scientific, practical, socio-political, socio-economic, children's, and women's, as well as entertainment magazines. Approximately 20 news agencies in Azerbaijan regularly and comprehensively disseminate information about events in the country and worldwide. About 100 newspapers and magazines are published in regions. Azerbaijan operates 11 nationwide, four satellite, 17 cable television, eight regional, and 12 radio stations. The transition to digital broadcasting in Azerbaijan was completed in 2014. More than 50 journalist organisations are registered in Azerbaijan. The number of independent commercial companies distributing printed media in the capital and regions exceeds 20.
The primary regulators of the country's media space are the following organisations:
- The Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan public legal entity was established by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, “On Deepening Reforms in the Media Sector in the Republic of Azerbaijan” (No.1249 of January 12, 2021), based on the State Support Fund for the Development of Mass Media under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan (has been operating since 2009).
- The Audiovisual Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the body regulating the sphere of audiovisual media, was established following the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan On the application of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 471-VIQ dated December 30, 2021 "On Media" and the regulation of several issues arising therefrom (№ 1589 of February 8, 2022) as the legal successor of the National Television and Radio Council which operated since 2002.
- The Press Council of Azerbaijan is a self-regulatory body. It was created on March 15, 2003, during the First Conference of Azerbaijani journalists, in which 180 media organisations were present.
The opening ceremony of the Public Television and Radio Broadcasting Company took place on August 29, 2005. When preparing programs, the public broadcaster considers the political views of the society, religious beliefs, various currents of public opinion, and the equality of citizens of the country. In addition, public television programs aim to reflect national and spiritual values, national customs and traditions, and diversity of culture and art. Public Television operates following the laws of Azerbaijan and the fundamental principles of classical public broadcasting.
Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint-Stock Company established the Medeniyyet Channel on February 14, 2011. One of the primary objectives of this Culture channel is to convey the rich human values of Azerbaijani culture globally and promote the world's cultural treasures in the country, thereby shaping the artistic aesthetic taste of the young generation. Besides this unique arts and culture TV channel, other operating channels, depending on their broadcasting policy, also offer a variety of regular programme series with cultural and artistic content, ranging from popular pop shows to programmes on classical heritage.
The Ministry of Culture enhances media coverage of cultural policies by broadening the coverage of cultural projects and events implemented in Azerbaijan and abroad through the Ministry's official Internet information resources (website, social networks, etc.) and the media (television, news agencies, news sites, etc.). Various analyses and monitoring of the disseminated information are regularly conducted.
In this regard, it is also worth noting the successful projects of the Ministry of Culture being implemented on social networks, television and radio, such as “Culture is Known by You”, “Journey to Cultural Heritage”, “Voice of Art”, “Cinema radio”, “Culture wave”, “Azerbaijani language”, “Our cultural heritage", “Cultural poster", “Presentations of cultural figures", “Speaking culture", “Culture and us", “Creators and keepers of our cinema alive", “Secret of a museum", “Our heritage that sounds", “Live performance of stage works”, etc.
Last update: April, 2025
The foundations of the national state language policy are laid down in the relevant articles of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.00 of November 12, 1995). The official language is Azerbaijani; the state guarantees the development of this language. At the same time, the state ensures the free use and development of other languages spoken by the population. Everyone has the right to use their native language, and no one may be deprived of this right.
The Republic of Azerbaijan has been a state party to the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities since June 26, 2000. Affirming its commitment to universal values and expressing its support for human rights and freedoms, the Republic of Azerbaijan declares that the ratification of the Framework Convention and the implementation of its provisions exclude any actions that may undermine the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as its internal and external security.
Based on this, the protection of the rights and freedoms of national minorities and ethnic groups living in the Republic of Azerbaijan and support for developing their language and culture form the foundation of the state's policy concerning national minorities. The implementation of state policy on the preservation and development of the cultural, linguistic and religious identity of national minorities and ethnic groups is carried out in such areas as state support for the observance of national traditions and customs, complete freedom of religious rites and rituals, the preservation and use of places of worship; the free development of folk crafts, professional and amateur creativity, folk art; the preservation of historical and cultural monuments of all peoples, etc. The Department of National Minorities was established in 2012 in the Institute of Folklore of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences. The department's primary purpose is to collect, systematise, and conduct research on the folklore of minorities.
The state cultural policy pursued in the Republic of Azerbaijan through intercultural dialogue aims to foster mutual understanding and friendly relations among ethnic groups living in the country. Any form of discrimination and xenophobia, including ethnic, national, racial, etc., are considered unacceptable. For these purposes, the Ministry of Culture carries out comprehensive work on preserving and developing the cultural values of ethnic minorities living in the country, which envisages cooperation with cultural centres and societies currently representing ethnic groups, provision of relevant amateur groups with folklore clothing, musical instruments and technical means; organisation of exhibitions reflecting the ethnography, art and customs of ethnic groups living in the country; tours of folk groups of national minorities in the country and abroad; creation conditions for active participation of groups representing national minorities not only in republic-wide cultural events; holding anniversaries of prominent representatives of culture and art of different ethnic groups; awarding honorary titles and monetary rewards to the leaders and participants of amateur art groups; etc.
Last update: April, 2025
The Republic of Azerbaijan ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in 1995 and signed its optional protocol in 2000. The Family Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.781-IQ of 28 December 1999) outlines the principles governing establishing and strengthening family relations, their termination, the rights and responsibilities of family members, and the duties of state bodies in this area. The purpose of the Law On guarantees of gender equality (men and women) (No.150-IIIQ of October 10, 2006) is to ensure gender equality by eliminating all forms of discrimination based on gender, creating equal opportunities for men and women in the political, economic, social, cultural and other spheres of public life. The Law On the Prevention of Domestic Violence (No.1058-IIIQ of June 22, 2010) focuses on domestic violence between close relatives to mitigate its adverse legal, medical and social outcomes and provide legal and social assistance for victims.
The State Committee on Women's Issues of the Republic of Azerbaijan was established by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan's decree on January 14, 1998. The need for a comprehensive solution to the problems of family, children, and women's issues led to the establishment of a unified state body - the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs established by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No.361 on February 6, 2006.
The Committee on Family, Women, and Children of the Milli Majlis prepares bills or provides opinions on submitted bills concerning family relations, including guardianship and trusteeship, the protection and implementation of women and children's rights, ensuring gender equality for both males and females and the prevention of domestic violence.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, in the Republic of Azerbaijan, approximately 500,000 women work in the public and 350,000 in the private sectors. Equal conditions and opportunities in labour activity are applied to women and men. Gender equality requires raising awareness; therefore, over the past two years, educational work has been conducted with 700 employers across 14 regions of the country. On the agenda is the issue of providing certain tax breaks to companies that appoint women to leadership positions.
Regarding gender equality in employment in Azerbaijan, women have traditionally held a predominance in culture and education. For example, out of 38,172 employees working in public cultural institutions of the Ministry of Culture in 2024, 27,171 were women (71.18%), and only 11,001 were men (28.82%). Most employees in libraries, museums, archives, music schools, and theatres are women who actively manage cultural institutions. The representation of women in key decision-making positions within cultural institutions and in essential cultural policymaking roles is also very high. For example, 65 women work in the Ministry of Culture's Office, and 18 occupy management positions. In comparison, 63 men are employed in the Ministry of Culture's Office, and 21 hold management positions. The State Service for the Protection, Development, and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, under the Ministry of Culture, employs a majority of men, with 83 women, four of whom occupy management positions, and 146 men, 12 of whom hold managerial roles. However, in this instance, we must recognise that working with immovable heritage entails considerable "fieldwork."
Last update: April, 2025
The Republic of Azerbaijan has joined the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities with Law No.686-IIIQ of October 2, 2008. Article 16 (“Ensuring access to cultural and sports facilities for persons with disabilities”) of the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (No.1153-VQ of May 31, 2018) obliges relevant executive authorities to ensure that cultural institutions and sports facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities. According to Article 14 of the Law on Culture (No.506-IVQ of 21 December 2012), which pertains to the right to use cultural institutions and cultural values, persons with disabilities are entitled to preferential access to cultural values.
Public organisations for the disabled and children with disabilities are exempt from paying rent for buildings used for cultural clubs, houses of culture, and libraries.
According to the State Statistics Committee, as of the beginning of 2023, the total number of persons with disabilities receiving pensions or benefits was 488,774, of which 46,654 were children under 18 years old with limited health.
The Comprehensive Program on the Problems of the Disabled in the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.185 of May 10, 1994) has been assigned to provide relevant jobs in various clubs and cultural centres for visually impaired or children with disabilities of groups I and II with special music education; to organise departments for blind readers at the central libraries in the cities; to strengthen the offices of the Azerbaijan Deaf Society in the relevant houses of culture; to hold regular holidays, concerts and performances, and other activities for children with disabilities; to provide free access to all museums for members of communities with disabilities, et cetera.
To ensure the cultural rights of persons with disabilities, wheelchairs and lifts have been installed in the Heydar Aliyev Palace, the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theatre, the Azerbaijan State Puppet Theatre, the Azerbaijan State Russian Drama Theatre, the Azerbaijan State Theatre for Young Spectators, and many other major cultural institutions.
In 2016, the Azerbaijan National Library developed a methodological manual entitled "Organization of Library Services for People with Disabilities" to ensure equal access to cultural life for people with disabilities.
The Republican Library for the Visually Impaired annually copies new books included in the library's fund in the recording studio. It makes them available to visually impaired readers living in the country's regions. In addition, the library has been equipped with modern technical equipment; all computers have been loaded with a program called "Jaws" for the visually impaired. At the same time, the library organises training courses for the middle and older generation of readers in the new Latin script, Braille.
Last update: April, 2025
Social integration and cohesion are among the key issues in the Republic of Azerbaijan's current cultural policy. A generally accepted approach is that when developing policies or programs by national, regional, or local authorities, the cultural factor is also considered for social integration and population cohesion. In particular, in the action plans of state programs to support specific groups (such as refugees, disadvantaged groups, the elderly, and the unemployed), there is always a place for many measures to involve them in a full-fledged cultural life.
A similar approach was reflected and realised in such government programs as the State Program on Solving the Problems of Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (No.895 of September 17, 1998), the “State Program on Improving Living Conditions and Increasing Employment of Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons” (No.298 of July 1, 2004), the State Program on Strengthening Social Protection of Elderly Citizens (No.1413 of April 17, 2006), the National Action Plan for the Protection of Human Rights in the Republic of Azerbaijan (No.1880 of December 28, 2006), the “National Action Program to increase the effectiveness of the protection of human rights and freedoms in the Republic of Azerbaijan” (No.1938 of December 27, 2011) and in many other state programs and projects.
Activities in the field of culture are also reflected in state programs dedicated to preventing possible negative factors and dangerous phenomena. For instance, among the activities prescribed by the State Program on Combating Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Their Precursors and Drug Addiction for 2019-2024 (No.1334 of July 22, 2019), there are “Organization of intellectual competitions against illicit trafficking in drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors to form an anti-drug worldview of pupils and students”; “Theatrical performances, feature, documentary and animated films on the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and the harms of drug addiction”; “Activities serving to organise leisure time of teenagers and youth in cities and regions”.
The National Action Plan on Combating Human Trafficking in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2020-2024 (No. 2173 of July 22, 2020) envisages “Taking appropriate measures in the administrative, educational, social, cultural and other areas to create an environment of public intolerance in society regarding the circumstances that create conditions for the commission of human trafficking and forced labour crimes; involving civil society institutions and media entities in this work”; “Strengthening advocacy and awareness-raising in the fight against human trafficking, making various social advertisements, videos, and short films; preparing and showing programs, preparing multiple educational materials, posting on Internet information resources and promoting their use”; “Applying the practice of evaluating the results of all awareness-raising activities and training on human trafficking by organisers and participants”.
Last update: April, 2025
National culture plays a significant role in the collective consciousness of Azerbaijani society, and the cultural heritage and achievements of arts and literature organically fit into its mentality, axiological attitudes, and everyday behaviour. In this context, the primary purpose of cultural policy in Azerbaijan is to harmonise relations between culture, artists, the public, and the state. It means building relationships where culture develops based on internal needs, creative individuals realise their potential, the audience receives aesthetic inspiration, and the state provides the necessary support. At the same time, society does not merely play the role of a consumer of culture and art; on the contrary, as feedback, it actively shapes the cultural agenda using the examples of created masterpieces.
The traditional significant societal impact of culture and art ultimately finds its expression in decisions taken by the state. The established practice is that when developing various types of state programs, strategies, and action plans, relevant events in the field of culture are often included that contribute to the implementation of these state programs. As examples, the State Program of Socio-Economic Development of the Regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2019-2023 (No.500 of January 29, 2019) and the Socio-Economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022-2026 (No.3378 of July 22, 2022) can be cited.
Moreover, the legislation ensures the active participation of the public in these processes: according to the Law On Public Participation (№ 816-IVQ of November 22, 2013), state bodies must provide the participation of citizens and civil society institutions in the preparation and implementation of state policy in various spheres of state and public life, including cultural one, and consider public opinion. These procedures also apply in decision-making at the national and local levels in organising public control over the activities of relevant government agencies responsible for culture. Private and civil society actors, individual figures, and researchers in culture actively utilise this consultative right, and their opinions and proposals are considered in various state programs, including cultural and artistic activities and projects. Forms of public participation include public councils, public discussions, public hearings, public opinion surveys, public consultations on draft legal acts, and written submissions. Thus, the Public Council under the Ministry of Culture is committed to facilitating the participation of civil society institutions in the adoption of legislative acts concerning the Ministry of Culture and organising public oversight of its activities.
The societal impact of culture is considered in the draft "Azerbaijani Culture - 2040" Concept of the Republic of Azerbaijan; one of the priorities is the culture of behaviour. The proposed policy in the field of the culture of behaviour envisages increasing the role and socio-political influence of culture in the behavioural algorithms of individuals, development and promotion of effective models of verbal and non-verbal communication within society and at the level of various state and social institutions, implementation of coordinated interdepartmental activities and projects to strengthen the reputation of the family institution as the primary bearer of national and spiritual values, ensuring the application of etiquette related to individual types of the culture of behaviour, such as contact with the environment, family and household behaviour, public behaviour, communication, aesthetic tastes, etc.
See also chapter 1.2.5
Last update: April, 2025
Approved by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No.273 of February 14, 2014, the Concept of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan reflects the understanding formed in the national cultural policy that cultural creativity and heritage require external support mechanisms from outside the cultural sector to ensure their sustainability and full development. Furthermore, there is a clear understanding that culture does not exist alone, in isolation, but as a social phenomenon. Consequently, culture actively engages with various aspects of societal life, including politics, law, economics and finance, science and education, human capital, international relations, and more. It leads to a state approach designed to foster a harmonious and mutually beneficial interaction between culture and all other facets of societal life, ensuring cultural sustainability that, in turn, supports the sustainability of society.
The national cultural policy considers not only issues of the development of culture itself, namely, issues directly related to the preservation of immovable monuments of history and culture, movable cultural values, intangible cultural heritage, support for theatres, musical creativity and visual arts, the development of cinematography and publishing, museums, libraries, cultural centres and so on. In addition to the above, considerable attention is devoted to the mechanisms for implementing cultural policy, including legislative, administrative, financial, and information support, staffing, infrastructure, and international cooperation. All these cultural policy areas are permanently analysed, appropriate recommendations are provided, and practical development paths are indicated. Thus, the foundations are laid for a sustainable approach to solving practical issues of national cultural policy. In the field of culture, all subsequent state programs, action plans, strategies, and roadmaps, as well as legislative initiatives, financial policies, personnel approaches, and so on, proceed in this manner. In this regard, systematic work has been undertaken throughout 2023-2024 to implement 287 tasks assigned to the Ministry of Culture through 11 state programs, five strategies, five national action plans, four action plans, 23 decrees, and 48 orders approved by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The draft "Azerbaijani Culture - 2040" Concept of the Republic of Azerbaijan proposes developing a “Culture for All” cultural model consisting of culture being an integral part of everyone’s lifestyle, ensuring the functionality of culture, the organic interaction of culture with science, education and innovations, broad access to culture, preventing monopolisation of creativity, preserving the cultural diversity and cultural unity of Azerbaijani society, preserving live communication in an environment of rapid digitalisation, preserving national identity and national-spiritual values in the context of globalisation, expanding the participation of Azerbaijani culture in international cultural exchange.
Last update: April, 2025
The destruction of Azerbaijani historical and cultural heritage in the territory of the modern Republic of Armenia is causing serious concern within society. In this context, Azerbaijan's non-governmental organisations, including the "Simurg" Azerbaijan Cultural Association, the Western Azerbaijan Community, the "Miras" Public Association for the Promotion of Cultural Heritage, the "Promotion of Iravan Cultural Heritage" Public Union, the "Zangezur" Societies Public Union, the "Objective" Public Union for the Promotion of National Values, the Association for the Protection of Azerbaijan’s Cultural Heritage and Support for Tourism, the Public Association "Organisation for the Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments in the Liberated Territories of Azerbaijan", the Public Association for Assistance in the Study of Cultural Heritage "Miras", the Forum of National Non-Governmental Organisations of Azerbaijan, the National Council of Youth Organisations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Public Association "Cultural Development Centre", and the Public Association "Association of National Culinary Arts of Azerbaijan", among others, have repeatedly sent collective open letters to the UNESCO Director-General, with copies forwarded to the President of the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Special Rapporteur on cultural rights. In their appeals, representatives of Azerbaijani civil society expressed concern regarding the systematic policy aimed at the deliberate destruction of cultural values and the erasure of the historical and cultural roots of Azerbaijani heritage in Armenia. These actions have resulted in the intentional destruction of both tangible and intangible Azerbaijani cultural heritage, erasing the lasting traces of the Azerbaijani people who inhabited these territories for centuries.
Non-governmental organisations have urgently reported that Azerbaijani cultural heritage in Western Zangezur, Gafan, Iravan, Goycha, Nuvadi, Vedi, and other areas has been intentionally destroyed and misappropriated. Among the numerous examples, the Damirbulag Mosque in Iravan was bulldozed in the early 1990s, and the sixteenth-century Sardar Mosque was demolished in several stages. The Gala Mosque, Shah Abbas Mosque, Tapabashi Mosque, Zal Khan Mosque, Sartib Khan Mosque, Haji Novruzali Bey Mosque, Haji Jafar Bey Mosque, Rajab Pasha Mosque, Mohammad Sartib Khan Mosque, Haji Inam Mosque, along with more than 300 other religious and cultural heritage sites in Armenia, have encountered the same fate. Furthermore, over 500 Azerbaijani cemeteries in Armenia, such as Aghadada, Ashaghi Shorja, Gullubulagh, and Saral, have been desecrated and destroyed. The tomb of the renowned Azerbaijani poet Ashig Alasgar, a significant figure representing Azerbaijan's intangible cultural heritage, was also demolished. This widespread campaign extends beyond physical destruction, as the historical names of Azerbaijani villages have been completely altered, with ancient toponyms supplanted by Armenian ones.
Azerbaijani civil society representatives emphasized in open letters their firm belief that UNESCO's involvement is urgently needed to halt the systematic policy of one of its member states, which aims to intentionally destroy cultural property and deny the historical and cultural roots of heritage belonging to the Azerbaijani people. They expressed their expectation of a principled and consistent approach from the Organisation to defend the principles and values it upholds. In light of the above, the representatives of Azerbaijani NGOs several times requested that UNESCO send a fact-finding mission to Armenia to monitor and document the state of Azerbaijani cultural heritage there and to demand that Armenia comply with its international obligations to protect Azerbaijani cultural heritage, as stipulated in various international conventions, particularly those of UNESCO.