12.05.2026

This report, reflecting the results of comprehensive measures implemented in the country to combat trafficking in human beings, has been prepared for the purpose of implementing Article 7.5 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, based on information provided by the structural units of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, including the Main Department on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and regional police units, the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan Bar Association, the Baku City Executive Power, and 28 central executive authorities.
The report also takes into account materials provided by the NGO Coalition on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, as well as analyses and assessments in this field conducted by relevant international organizations.
It should be noted that, although no comprehensive global report on trafficking in human beings has been published since the Seventh Global Report of the United Nations in January 2024, several updated datasets and analytical publications have been issued over the past two years.

According to statistical data published on the official website of the European Union in January 2026, 9,678 victims of trafficking in human beings were recorded in EU Member States in 2024. Women and girls accounted for approximately two thirds (63%) of all victims, while sexual exploitation remained the most prevalent form of exploitation, representing 46% of all cases. The number of convicted traffickers increased by 13% to 2,599.
In addition, according to a survey report released in March 2026 by the OSCE Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, participating States identified approximately 102,000 victims of trafficking in human beings between 2021 and 2024, including nearly 30,000 victims in 2024 alone. Labour exploitation was the most common form of exploitation, affecting 32% of victims, followed by sexual exploitation (21%) and exploitation for criminal activities (17%). The report also highlights a sharp increase in cases of online sexual exploitation, with the number of recorded cases rising from 9 in 2021 to 1,665 in 2025.
According to information published on INTERPOL’s official website, a large scale operation conducted in 2025 with the participation of 15,000 officers from police, border control, labour inspection, tax, and customs authorities across 43 countries resulted in the identification of 1,194 potential victims of trafficking in human beings and the arrest of 158 suspects. The information further indicates that the majority of identified victims of sexual exploitation were adult women, while children accounted for most victims subjected to forced begging and exploitation for criminal activities.
The statistical approach of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the findings of regional monitoring conducted by the European Union, the country rankings contained in the U.S. Department of State’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report, and operational data published by INTERPOL collectively demonstrate that trafficking in human beings is no longer viewed solely as a law enforcement issue, but increasingly as a complex and multidimensional threat encompassing socio economic and information security dimensions.
Taking these developments into account, the Republic of Azerbaijan continued to monitor relevant processes through multi-layered and sustained mechanisms during the reporting period. Global and regional trends in trafficking in human beings, emerging risks, and the evolving activities of criminal networks were regularly analysed, while targeted measures in the areas of prevention, criminal prosecution, victim protection, and social rehabilitation were consistently implemented.
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the institutional framework for combating trafficking in human beings, particular attention was given during the reporting year to improving relevant mechanisms. In coordination with competent state authorities, amendments were introduced to one Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan, three Decrees of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and three Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers.
In addition, taking into account proposals submitted by relevant state institutions, the National Action Plan for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026–2030 and the draft Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan approving the Plan were prepared, coordinated with 34 state bodies, and submitted for approval.
To protect individuals and society from all forms of trafficking in human beings and reduce the risk of victimization, preventive measures were strengthened during the reporting year. Awareness raising activities and training programmes were implemented.
Measures implemented by state bodies were comprehensive and multilayered and were significantly expanded in both geographical coverage and target groups. They focused on early awareness among at risk populations, improving legal literacy, and preventing trafficking related risks at an early stage.
In this context, 3,400 awareness raising materials were distributed to relevant state bodies to inform persons travelling abroad for employment, foreign nationals transiting through the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and individuals arriving in the country about the risks of trafficking in human beings.
Within the framework of measures implemented in the education sector, and in accordance with the joint plan of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Science and Education, awareness raising seminars on trafficking in human beings and forced labour offences were organized in 71 secondary specialized education institutions with the aim of improving the legal knowledge of young people.
Based on the principle of multi sectoral participation, these activities involved representatives of law enforcement agencies, the media, civil society and non governmental organizations, local executive authorities, transport, education, health, social protection and employment centres, as well as entrepreneurs.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population also carried out intensive awareness raising activities through both traditional and digital platforms, publishing 14 video materials (including 3 animations) and 7 posters on social media, and distributing 1,500 leaflets among the population.
In addition, 3 success stories, 9 additional posters and 1 press release were prepared, and more than 13 expert interviews were organized on the DOST TV platform (including programmes such as “Online Inspector”, “Expert Opinion”, “Objective”, and “Care”). Across various platforms, the Ministry organized 61 awareness raising meetings, directly informing more than 2,500 individuals.
Institutional awareness raising activities were also conducted by the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman), with broad public participation, covering topics such as human rights, gender equality, early marriage, domestic violence, and trafficking in human beings.
The State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs organized awareness raising meetings with local communities in six districts. In addition, an event held in the Goychay district served as an example of interregional cooperation, bringing together various state and non state actors across seven administrative territories.
The State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan organized 17 events in ASAN Service centres covering 10 administrative territories, while 16 trainings and seminars organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports were attended by 440 participants.
On the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Electronic Security Service under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport disseminated awareness raising posts on social media platforms. In addition, video materials on combating trafficking in human beings were broadcast throughout the year on monitors installed at the Baku International Bus Terminal Complex.
Events and campaigns organized by the State Tourism Agency and the Ministry of Health included the distribution of 14,000 awareness raising leaflets covering topics such as “Together Against Human Trafficking: Safe Travel, Secure Future”, “Child Trafficking”, “A Child Remains Silent, You Do Not: Do Not Stay Silent Against Violence”, “Let Us Jointly Combat Child Abuse”, and “Say No to Domestic Violence”.
In the field of media and communications, the topic of combating trafficking in human beings was covered in 12 television programmes broadcast on major national channels, including Khazar TV, AZTV, ARB, ATV, Kanal S, Dunya TV, and Madaniyyat TV, along with the daily dissemination of related video materials.
With the support of the Media Development Agency, 184 materials were published across 56 media outlets. The State Advertising Agency implemented broad outreach campaigns across social media platforms, while the Ministry of Culture organized events in cultural and educational institutions across more than 45 cities and districts.
The Ministry of Science and Education continued efforts to ensure access to education for children requiring special support. During the 2024–2025 academic year, inclusive classrooms were established in 67 general education institutions across the regions of the country. Beyond promoting educational inclusion, this initiative also served as a preventive measure aimed at reducing social vulnerabilities associated with trafficking in human beings.
Regular monitoring was also conducted in Baku to strengthen the management of school absenteeism. A unified list of children in risk groups was developed, and methodological guidelines outlining a step by step approach for working with such children were prepared for local education authorities and executive bodies.
At the same time, 1,342 social pedagogues were recruited and assigned to 1,020 general education institutions nationwide. This measure significantly strengthened institutional capacity for the early identification of social risks, the provision of individual social and psychological support, structured engagement with families, and the retention of children within the education system.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population carried out 1,183 monitoring visits to assess the living conditions of children adopted by citizens of Azerbaijan, 26 monitoring visits concerning Azerbaijani children adopted by foreign nationals, and 516 assessments of the social and psychological environment of children placed with foster families. No adverse findings were identified.
In addition, more than 3,000 individuals from vulnerable population groups received services through 21 social service institutions, over 2,000 persons with disabilities were provided with one time financial assistance, and 400 housing units were allocated to socially vulnerable families.
As part of social service contracting programmes, 30 day care centres for children were established. Under the “Social Work in Education” project, initial and follow up monitoring was conducted in 1,140 general education institutions.
To identify risk factors among children, 1,392 children underwent crisis assessments.
Comprehensive preventive and legal measures also continued to ensure the documentation of children without identity documents and the registration of births. The fact of birth was formally established for nine children. Pursuant to court decisions, birth certificates were issued and the relevant information was entered into the State Population Register of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Each child was subsequently assigned a personal identification number.
During the reporting period, training programmes, educational initiatives, and professional development activities carried out in the field of combating trafficking in human beings were implemented in a systematic manner. Covering law enforcement, migration, justice, healthcare, tourism, diplomatic service, and other sectors, these activities were aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of more than 2,000 participants.
At the Police Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, more than 100 cadets, senior officials from 20 city and district police authorities, and nearly 1,800 officers from 84 police bodies participated in specialized training on trafficking in human beings and forced labour offences, their links to transnational organized crime, the distinction between these offences and other violations, and victim identification.
Under the “Migration School 7” project implemented by the State Migration Service, 38 participants received training on identifying trafficking risks and applying preventive approaches in migration processes.
In the healthcare sector, training on the identification of victims of trafficking in human beings, psychosocial support, and protection mechanisms was provided to more than 200 medical and non-medical personnel, 612 therapists (through 25 courses comprising 94 training hours), as well as 10 psychiatrists and psychologists. In addition, at the initiative of TABIB and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, multidisciplinary training sessions were conducted at three major healthcare institutions.
A total of 303 participants attended professional development courses organized by the Justice Academy. In addition, the Scientific and Educational Centre of the Prosecutor General’s Office organized mandatory induction training for 107 newly recruited employees and candidates, covering the protection of human rights and the social danger posed by trafficking in human beings.
Furthermore, more than 50 representatives of the relevant state authority in the tourism sector participated in awareness raising training on combating trafficking in human beings, preventive measures, and mechanisms for international cooperation.
Representatives of the NGO Coalition on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and nearly 200 representatives of vocational education institutions also participated in these training activities.
In addition, the “Clean World: Assistance to Women” Public Union, a member of the NGO Coalition on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, developed a number of methodological publications aimed at improving the effectiveness of activities in this field and strengthening professional knowledge and skills. Particular note should be made of publications entitled “Guidelines for Digital Monitoring in Combating Trafficking in Human Beings”, “National Training Module on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings”, and “Monitoring Criteria for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings”.
As part of efforts to keep the public informed about activities undertaken in the field of combating trafficking in human beings, 31 informational materials were published on the website of the Main Department on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings.
Non governmental organizations also continued to play an important role in awareness raising, informing potential victims of trafficking in human beings, supporting their social rehabilitation, providing legal assistance, and contributing to the operation of specialized facilities for victims. In this regard, the Agency on State Support to Non Governmental Organizations financed 10 projects submitted by non governmental organizations, with a total value of 159,000 AZN.
In addition, 70,487 AZN was allocated for the social rehabilitation of victims of trafficking in human beings, their accommodation in shelters, and the provision of one time allowances.
Particular attention continued to be given to strengthening legal and institutional mechanisms for combating trafficking in human beings, preventing offences committed through digital platforms, enhancing information exchange, participating in regional and global initiatives, and maintaining Azerbaijan’s position among the leading countries in international reports and rankings in this field.
In this regard, information and experience were exchanged with representatives of specialized international organizations and foreign diplomatic missions accredited to Azerbaijan. Partners were informed about the political commitment demonstrated by the State in combating trafficking in human beings, as well as the progress and achievements attained in this field, while prospects for further cooperation were discussed during bilateral meetings.
The experience of Belarus, Ukraine, Germany, Iraq, and other countries in combating trafficking in human beings was also examined and taken into account in the areas of legislation, criminal prosecution, victim protection, and rehabilitation.
A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in strengthening the efforts of the Parties to supervise the activities of private employment agencies in order to prevent trafficking in human beings was signed between the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation of the United Arab Emirates.
Detailed comments were provided on reports concerning Azerbaijan prepared by the U.S. Departments of State, Justice, and Labor, the Council of Europe’s Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA), and the Secretariat of the Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (Lanzarote Convention). Relevant questionnaires were also duly answered.
Representatives of the specialized police body participated in professional exchanges in France, Spain, Malta, Hungary, Austria, and the Republic of Moldova within the framework of projects implemented by various foreign organizations.
The Global Estimates of Modern Slavery (2022), prepared jointly by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Walk Free, indicate that of approximately 50 million people living in conditions of modern slavery worldwide, 27.6 million were subjected to forced labour. The report further notes a significant increase in the scale of forced labour in recent years, with the number of victims rising by 10 million.
In this context, the Decent Work Country Programme for 2025–2029 between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the International Labour Organization, signed in the previous year, serves as an important instrument for preventing forced labour. The programme aims to expand employment opportunities, improve labour relations, and strengthen the social protection system in the country.
The State Employment Agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population implemented a range of measures, including providing employment for 189,000 individuals, granting unemployment insurance benefits to 10,800 registered unemployed persons, engaging 6,964 individuals in paid public works programmes, involving 1,763 individuals in the wage subsidy programme, and enrolling 16,827 individuals in the self employment programme. These measures have contributed to reducing the risk of individuals becoming victims of forced labour.
In addition, 18,368 jobseekers and unemployed persons were enrolled by the State Employment Agency in vocational training and skills development courses aligned with labour market demands.
To prevent labour law violations, the Labour Relations Monitoring Centre of the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan conducted 39 on site inspections at construction sites. During these inspections, it was found that 75 out of 1,047 workers were employed without formal employment contracts. As a result, materials concerning one employer (an individual entrepreneur) were submitted to the Prosecutor General’s Office, while administrative fines totalling 92,200 AZN were imposed in 18 cases.
The State Labour Inspection Service identified six cases involving the employment of persons under the age of 15 based on information received from relevant authorities and imposed administrative fines of 6,000 AZN on responsible officials. In addition, in one case involving the engagement of children in activities that may endanger their life, health, or morals, an administrative fine of 3,300 AZN was imposed.
Furthermore, operational investigative measures carried out by the specialized police body identified one case of forced labour, and a criminal case was initiated. Subsequent procedural investigations established that the victim had been exploited in the construction sector in Montenegro.
During inspections aimed at preventing child labour, 936 children outside family care and formal care systems, as well as 511 parents facilitating such situations, were identified.
As a result, 510 case files were forwarded to local executive authorities and guardianship and trusteeship bodies. Thirty two parents were held administratively liable and placed under police supervision. No cases of children being involved in begging by third parties were identified.
Operational investigative measures carried out in connection with the detection of trafficking in human beings and the prosecution of perpetrators resulted in the identification of 198 offences (-8), including 57 committed through the use of information technologies. Of these, 152 (-9) were trafficking in human beings offences, and 45 (+1) involved unlawful acts with documents for the purpose of trafficking in human beings.
Ninety seven per cent of trafficking in human beings offences were solved, and two criminal groups were dismantled through operational measures targeting six persons.
In relation to these offences, 10 criminal cases (-5) were initiated (within the framework of one criminal case, up to 20 incidents were investigated). Eight criminal cases involved 10 accused persons (9 women), while 12 persons (11 women) were convicted by the courts.
Courts sentenced 14 traffickers (2 from previous years, including 4 men and 10 women, 3 of whom received suspended sentences) to imprisonment.
Of 31 accused persons wanted domestically (+1) for offences including trafficking in human beings (15 cases), coercion into sexual acts, production and distribution of child pornography, illegal distribution of pornographic materials or items, inducement to prostitution, and maintaining brothels, 15 (-1) were apprehended, including 3 traffickers.
At present, 10 accused persons (-1) are subject to international search via INTERPOL channels. They are presumed to be located in Türkiye (7 persons), Pakistan (1 person), the Russian Federation (1 person), and the United Arab Emirates (1 person).
During the reporting year, all 46 identified victims of trafficking in human beings (-45) were citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan and were female. Of these, 33 were subjected to sexual exploitation in the Republic of Türkiye, 10 in the United Arab Emirates, and 3 in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
With regard to age distribution, 4 victims were aged 18–25, 28 were aged 25–35, and 14 were aged over 35.
Measures for the rehabilitation and reintegration of victims were implemented. Each victim was provided with one time financial assistance in the amount of 700 AZN. All victims were accommodated in the relevant shelter of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and were provided with medical assistance, including testing and treatment for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as gynaecological and therapeutic services. They were also provided with psychological, social, legal assistance, and essential clothing.
In addition, 16 victims were referred to vocational training programmes. Assistance was provided in securing employment for 9 victims, obtaining identity documents for 6 victims, medical treatment for 1 victim, and social assistance for 11 victims, while 23 victims were supported in returning to their families.
Of the 45 victims referred to non governmental organisations, 12 received services at “Clean World: Assistance to Women” Public Union, 8 at “Tamas Regional Development” Public Union, 8 at “Family World: Legal Assistance to Families” Public Union, 10 at “Women of the 21st Century” Public Union, and 7 at “Women Initiative and Support for Social Problems” Public Union.
Of the 41 victims referred to the Assistance Centre for Victims of Trafficking in Human Beings under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan, 22 received psychological support and 5 received legal assistance. In addition, 2 victims were referred to the State Employment Agency for employment support and 5 for vocational training.
Children of victims were also supported: 11 were provided with school supplies, 5 were enrolled in pre school education programmes, assistance was provided in obtaining birth certificates and identity documents for 11 children, and 8 children were supported in receiving alimony payments.
Lawyers who are members of the Azerbaijan Bar Association provided legal representation to 69 victims of trafficking in human beings in court proceedings and to 24 victims during criminal investigations. In addition, financial assistance amounting to 3,350 AZN was provided from the relevant Assistance Fund of the Ministry of Internal Affairs to 40 victims of trafficking in human beings and 5 presumed victims of trafficking in human beings.
Pursuant to Article 14-1.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, 7 victims of trafficking in human beings were granted a 30 day recovery and reflection period to enable them to recover, avoid the influence of traffickers, and make an informed decision regarding cooperation with criminal justice authorities.
Measures were also taken to ensure the timely identification of victims, the protection of their rights and confidentiality, their placement in a safe environment, access to medical, psychological, and legal assistance, and their safe and sustainable reintegration into society. The anonymity of potential victims and witnesses was safeguarded, and appropriate protection measures were also ensured for vulnerable persons.

During the reporting year, 10,490 (+236) enquiries received through the "152" hotline concerning employment abroad, education, marriage to foreign nationals, domestic violence, temporary registration of migrants, adoption, and other matters were reviewed, and the necessary guidance and information were provided.
Analysis and research indicate that trafficking in human beings is mainly prevalent in regions affected by poverty and unemployment, limited access to education and information, corruption, gender inequality, armed conflict, and deep rooted socio economic challenges. It typically leads to exploitation in countries with a demand for low cost labour and where commercial sexual services are legally permitted or tolerated.
At the same time, the strong emphasis on national and moral values in Azerbaijan, the strength of family structures, social responsibility, and the comprehensive measures implemented by the State in the legal, economic, social, educational, and security spheres constitute an important safeguard against trafficking in human beings. As a result, trafficking in human beings offences account for only 0.6 per cent of recorded crime in the country.
These findings indicate that trafficking in human beings does not constitute a characteristic form of criminal activity in Azerbaijan.
However, under the next National Action Plan, the following priorities will be implemented in coordination with the relevant state bodies: the continuous strengthening of the normative legal framework and institutional mechanisms in the field of combating trafficking in human beings, the enhancement of preventive measures, the protection of children who are victims, presumed victims, or potential victims of these crimes, the ensuring of effective criminal prosecution, the social rehabilitation, protection of rights, and reintegration of victims into society, the development of cooperation and coordination among relevant state bodies, the provision of specialised training for representatives of state authorities and non governmental organisations, the expansion of awareness raising activities, and the efficient coordination of available resources.
Overall, as a result of the effective state policy implemented in the Republic of Azerbaijan in the field of combating trafficking in human beings, the spread of this crime has been prevented and effective mechanisms have been established in this area.
At present, all necessary measures are being taken on the basis of a preventive and sustainable approach to minimise future risks and ensure the continuity of the positive results achieved.