The Voluntary National Review (VNR) lab “Path to equal: New Measurement Framework on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment”, organized by UN Women, was held virtually on 15 July 2021, 8–9 am (EDT) on the margins of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF).

Representing Azerbaijan at the forum, Mrs. Jeyran Rahmatullayeva head of the Apparatus of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs first greeted the participants and wished success to the forum. Mrs. Rahmatullayeva said she was a woman from a country whose lands had been under occupation for 30 years, and the 44-day war was the starting point.

In her speech, she stressed that ensuring gender equality in Azerbaijan, ensuring equal participation of women in society is always in the center of attention.

Noting that women in Azerbaijan have opportunities to work in all fields, the head of the Apparatus said that the adopted state and national action programs and other important documents reflect the gender component and increase women's activity in all areas.

The committee the official stressed that the Azerbaijani government continues to work to achieve gender equality and the 5th goal of the Sustainable Development Goals on empowerment of all women and girls. Mrs. Rahmatullayeva added that the closer participation and activity of women in the socio-political life of society in Azerbaijan is constantly increasing.

She noted that 12 children and 27 women were killed as a result of Armenian terror, especially during the 44-day war, and many women lost their homes and jobs.

National Action Plan on Gender Equality in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2020-2024, National Action Plan on Implementation of Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2020-2023 and National Action Plan Ensuring Women's Employment in the Republic of Azerbaijan Work for 2021-2023 is in process of preparation.

She said that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many projects and programs are being implemented in Azerbaijan to help families.

At the end of her speech, Mrs. Rahmatullayeva stressed that the policy of gender equality in Azerbaijan, the creation of all opportunities for people and smart investment are based on the principles of successful gender equality.