On December 2, 2024, a conference on "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Bullying" was organized by the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs. The conference focused on the dialogue between government institutions and civil society organizations.

The event was held within the framework of the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" campaign and in observance of December 10 - International Human Rights Day.

In her opening speech, Aynur Sofiyeva, Deputy Chair of the State Committee, stated that bullying is a problem that concerns not only individuals and families but society as a whole. Referring to the World Health Organization’s data, she highlighted that 20% of children and minors worldwide are either victims or participants in bullying. Sofiyeva emphasized that government agencies and civil society organizations should work in a coordinated manner to protect children and mobilize all their resources.

Sofiyeva also mentioned that the "2020–2030 Strategy for Children in the Republic of Azerbaijan" outlines the state's objectives regarding child issues, with one of the key goals being the protection of children in difficult living conditions. She added that the Committee had undertaken the task of improving the legal framework in this area, and several documents had already come into force.

She further noted that the "Law on the Rights of Children" of Azerbaijan is being revised to form a strong legal basis for the protection and development of children.

The State Committee places special emphasis on enhancing the skills of professionals working with children and on fostering collaboration with non-governmental organizations.

A survey on bullying in schools in Azerbaijan was conducted, and an analytical report titled "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Detecting Bullying" was prepared.

The conference moderator, Taliya Ibrahimova, Director of the Legal Support Department at the State Committee, described bullying among minors as a social-psychological problem. She emphasized that the issue could be addressed if a legal mechanism, unified rules, and a professional approach were established.

Elnur Aliyev, Head of the Department of Child and Youth Development Policy at the Ministry of Science and Education, drew attention to the relevance of the topic and highlighted the importance of preventive measures in the field. He mentioned that a concept document had been developed to address existing issues in child rights, including training programs for parents to create a healthy environment for children. He also noted that measures would be taken to prevent psychological issues and violence in schools, and monitoring would be strengthened.

Narmina Huseynova, Deputy Director of the State Agency for Preschool and General Education, stated that bullying does not only originate from schools but also has a significant connection with the family. She pointed out that, starting from the 2023-2024 school year, 62 schools in Baku and 300 schools in the regions have implemented student behavior rules, with preliminary results showing positive effects. She emphasized that these rules would soon be applied nationwide.

Imran Aliyev, Deputy Head of the Juvenile Preventive Work Department at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, emphasized that the elimination of aggressive behavior among minors could be achieved if parents, government agencies, and civil society work together as a team.

At the conference, presentations were made by Kamala Ashumova, Chairperson of the Hopeful Future Social Initiatives Public Union, Asif Cahangirov, Honored Teacher and Professor at the International Academy of Humanist Pedagogy, and Nigar Ağayeva, Head of the Child Rights Protection Sector at the Ombudsman’s Office, who spoke about the involvement of civil society and educational institutions in addressing child rights issues and coordinating solutions to the problem.

The conference also included a presentation of the analytical report titled "Aggressive Behavior Among Minors: Bullying," prepared by researcher Goshgar Maharramov under the State Committee’s order.

The conference, which was attended by local executive authorities, psychologists, inspectors working with minors, school directors, and non-governmental organizations, included discussions and proposals on the subject.