New legal powers are being proposed for employees in Azerbaijan who are subjected to repeated mobbing in the workplace. According to Operative Information Center-OMM, this initiative is reflected in the 2025 report of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman), which was recently submitted for discussion at a meeting of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) Committee on Human Rights.
The proposal suggests the necessity of adding a new article titled "Psychological pressure at the workplace (mobbing)" to the Labor Code to consolidate relevant legal relations. Under the draft project, an amendment to Article 69 (Procedure for termination of employment contract by the employee) is envisioned. This change would grant employees who suffer from repeated psychological violence (mobbing) the authority to unilaterally terminate their employment contracts.
Mobbing is defined as intentional psychological violence aimed at forcing an individual out of professional life. The process typically begins with disrespectful, degrading treatment and groundless accusations. Subsequently, the employer creates an aggressive environment targeting the employee's social reputation, forcing them to resign through insults and ridicule. In Azerbaijan, these proposed legislative updates aim to strengthen the social protection of workers and align the national labor framework with international human rights standards, ensuring a healthier and more professional environment across the Republic.
