Next collegial meeting was held at the Ministry of Labour and
Social Protection of Population
The successes of the social reforms implemented in Azerbaijan in recent years have been highly praised at the international level. This year, the achievements have earned over 100 international awards from various organizations. This was discussed at the next collegial meeting held at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population.
Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Population Sahil Babayev stated that in accordance with the instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, the social reforms not only strengthen the social protection system but also enable the broad application of innovative solutions and modern technologies in the state social services system. The DOST concept, initiated by First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva, was highlighted as it creates conditions for social services to be provided transparently, efficiently, and based on citizen satisfaction through a “single window” approach.
The meeting emphasized that recent social reforms, including the DOST model and proactive service mechanisms, have been recognized by international organizations as best practices. The number of countries seeking to adopt these practices is steadily increasing. It was also noted that the successful experiences gained from these reforms will continue to be introduced and shared internationally.
The meeting also discussed the expansion of the Ministry’s cooperation with reputable international organizations and relevant agencies from various countries. It was noted that new cooperation agreements were signed during the year. The largest global event hosted by Azerbaijan, COP29, was highlighted, where discussions on a fair transition to a green economy and the development of decent green jobs were prominent. Representatives from several countries attended and became acquainted with Azerbaijan's innovative achievements in social welfare, including the DOST centers and the DOST Center for Inclusive Development and Creativity.
The meeting addressed the work done in the areas of citizen reception and responses to inquiries. During the first 11 months of the year, more than 1,75 million citizens were received by the Ministry and its institutions, with nearly 120000 being received by senior officials, and the rest through reception offices and DOST centers. Additionally, 468,6 thousand written and electronic inquiries, 81,1 thousand through social media, and 1,5 million via the "142" Call Center were answered.
The meeting also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to ensure public participation, collaborate with civil society institutions and the media, and work on social awareness. Press conferences, briefings, interviews, media tours, and the development of media resources, such as the DOST TV, were discussed, along with upcoming goals in these areas.
Work in the areas of adoption and alternative care was also discussed. In the first 11 months of the year, 151 children were adopted. Since the Ministry took over management of adoption services on November 1, 2019, nearly 670 children have been placed with adoptive families. The implementation of the “Foster Family” care model was also noted, with 28 children already placed in foster families.
Finally, the meeting covered the work in employment, vocational training, qualification standards, strategic planning, and innovation, with 22 new vocational and qualification standards approved during the year.