The Milli Majlis (National Assembly) of Azerbaijan has approved a bill in its final reading to cover the tuition fees of children of deminers who lost their lives during demining operations from the state budget.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the legislation involves amendments to the Tax Code, the Law on Education, and the Law on Demining Activity, which were discussed during the parliament's plenary session. The bill was developed with the aim of improving the social welfare of family members of deminers who died while performing their duties and increasing state care for them.
The amendments to the Tax Code provide for a 400 AZN reduction in the taxable monthly income of the family members of fallen deminers. Furthermore, the changes to the Law on Education stipulate that the state will cover the tuition costs for the children of these individuals studying on a paid basis in educational institutions across Azerbaijan, regardless of the institution's form of ownership. This support applies throughout the duration of their studies, excluding additional education, until the students reach the age of 23.
Azerbaijan remains one of the most landmine-contaminated countries in the world, particularly in the territories liberated from occupation. The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) and other relevant bodies are continuously engaged in large-scale humanitarian demining to ensure the safe return of former internally displaced persons. This legislative initiative reflects the government's recognition of the high-risk nature of demining work and its commitment to providing long-term security for the families of those who sacrifice their lives in the line of duty.
According to the transitional provisions, the changes are scheduled to be implemented from September 15, 2026. However, the benefits will also apply to the children of deminers who were killed or died from injuries sustained during demining operations prior to the date this law enters into force. Following the discussions, the bill was put to a vote and adopted in the third reading.
