Healthy Social Environment

Domestic violence is one of the most pressing and sensitive social issues of our time. Just like in the rest of the world, cases of violence against women and children in Azerbaijan pose a serious threat to the healthy development of society, the institution of the family, and social stability.

According to research conducted by the United Nations and other international organizations, one in three women experiences violence at some point in her life. Domestic violence does not only refer to physical abuse, but also includes psychological, economic, and sexual forms of violence. Unfortunately, in most cases, victims choose to remain silent due to fear, economic dependency, or societal pressure.

In this context, the project titled “Promotion of Successful Practices Against Domestic Violence,” implemented by the public association “Innovative Progress and Support for Socio-Economic Development,” with full financial support from the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, holds particular relevance. The head of the project and chairperson of the association, Saida Musayeva, considers this initiative a strategic step aimed at ensuring social security and protecting women’s rights.

In her speech, Saida Musayeva emphasized the importance of keeping this issue constantly on the public agenda. She noted that thanks to the farsighted policy and support of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, wide opportunities have been created in the country for the implementation of such important projects focused on the protection of women and children.

 

 

At the same time, she expressed her deep gratitude to the First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva, for her humanistic approach, constant care and support, her significant contributions to the socio-economic development of women and the preservation of family values, as well as her attention and commitment to this issue.

The activities planned within the framework of the project — meetings to be held in Baku, Sumgayit, Lokbatan, Khirdalan, and the Khazar district — provide wide opportunities to engage directly with people living in various regions. During these meetings, lawyers, psychologists, and other field experts provide participants with detailed information on both legal foundations and psychological support mechanisms.

It was during these events that the association’s deputy chair, Jamala Nakhchivani, acting as moderator, captured the participants’ attention with her professional approach, deep analytical perspective, and open appeals to society.

 

The project expert, legal psychologist Natig Babayev, emphasized in his speech that awareness-raising, social support, and joint efforts by society play a crucial role in preventing violence. He stated that combating domestic violence is not only possible through legal measures but also through a profound transformation of public consciousness. His presentation was delivered in an interactive format that encouraged the audience to reflect and engage in active discussions around the topic.

The main goal of such social initiatives and projects is to establish a unified stance in society against violence, change perceptions and attitudes, ensure timely identification of violence cases, and strengthen intervention mechanisms. In particular, the empowerment of women and children, the enhancement of their economic independence, and the protection of their rights are essential prerequisites for the healthy development of society on a solid foundation.