On October 20, 2022 the Chairperson of the State Committee on Family, Women and Children Affairs Mrs. Bahar Muradova met with the Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Azerbaijan Alex Heikens.

Welcoming the guests, the Chairperson of the Committee Bahar Muradova underlined that UNICEF activities in Azerbaijan have always been based on mutual interests. 

With the goal of overcoming the consequences of the war, the Chairperson noted that today we must first and foremost solve the problems of children affected by war.

Highly appreciating the joint activities of UNICEF with the State Committee, the Chairperson thanked for the technical support and close involvement of UNICEF in the implementation of the "Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for Children 2020-2030" and the "National Action Plan" for its implementation.

 Noting the support of UNICEF in developing a number of new projects, B. Muradova shared positive feedback on projects related to the protection of children in emergency situations, especially in the liberated territories, as well as on joint projects during the pandemic.

She added that next January the Azerbaijani government is planning to submit a report on the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child for the last 2 years.

Expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome, the Representative of UNICEF Alex Heikens stated that Azerbaijan, having gone through a difficult period, is now entering a new phase and work is underway to ensure the reconstruction process. According to the UN representative, starting from 2021 UNICEF has been conducting wide awareness-raising activities among the population about mines, to ensure safe conditions for refugees and IDPs when they return to their homeland.

Noting the importance of the Strategy on Children 2020-2030, Mr. Heikens noted that UNICEF has also participated in the preparation of this document and is interested in providing appropriate support. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in the development of early childhood, stressing the need for increased coordination in this area.

He also informed about a draft program to strengthen social protection and support mechanisms for children and emphasized the importance of cooperation with the State Committee, especially in awareness-raising work aimed at protecting children from violence.

The meeting continued with an exchange of views on the prospects for bilateral cooperation, as well as priorities for the coming period.