Azerbaijan has recorded a significant decline in the number of early marriages compared to previous years, with data indicating a five-to-six-fold reduction. This development reflects ongoing efforts by state institutions to address social issues and protect the rights of minors.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Tamilla Aliyeva, Deputy Head of the Family Issues Department at the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, announced these figures during a broadcast on Dost TV.
Aliyeva explained that the statistics are derived from marriage registration records and the number of births recorded by mothers under the age of 18. She noted that according to the State Statistical Committee, the number of children born to mothers under 18 decreased from 2,011 in 2022 to 1,742 in 2023, and further dropped to 1,279 in 2024. In previous years, this figure reached as high as 4,000.
"While we still encounter such cases, the trend is clearly downward. Additional measures are being implemented to completely prevent these occurrences," Aliyeva stated. She emphasized that society has developed a more negative attitude toward early marriages, leading to increased public reporting of such incidents to relevant authorities.
"It is not appropriate to place the entire burden on the state. The active participation and vigilance of every citizen in this process are crucial," the official added.
The State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs plays a pivotal role in Azerbaijan's social policy, focusing on the protection of children's rights, gender equality, and the strengthening of the institution of the family. Through educational campaigns and legislative oversight, the government aims to eradicate practices that hinder the educational and social development of minors.
