Within the framework of the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture,” a scientific-practical seminar on the topic “National Action Program for the Effective Protection of Human Rights and Freedoms and the Prevention of Violations” was organized at Mingachevir State University. The seminar was dedicated to combating human trafficking and forced labor.

The main objective of the seminar was to conduct scientific discussions aimed at preventing crimes such as human trafficking and forced labor in the context of building a safe, socially just, and inclusive urban environment, to strengthen awareness-raising activities in this field, and to foster a culture of public intolerance toward violations of rights and freedoms.

The event was aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly aiming to contribute to SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

As part of the seminar, an awareness-raising video on the topic was presented.

The seminar was moderated by Elvin Mammadzade, Advisor to the Rector for Social Affairs at Mingachevir State University. In his speech, he emphasized that crimes such as human trafficking and forced labor are not only legal issues but also matters of social and moral responsibility, highlighting the important educational and preventive role of higher education institutions in this area.

Polad Atayev, a legal advisor at MDU, delivered a presentation on “Constitutional Rights and Freedoms of Humans and Citizens, Their Types, and Effective Protection,” explaining the legal foundations of human rights and freedoms, protection mechanisms, and the responsibilities of the state in this field. He also addressed the role of legal awareness in preventing violations.

Aygun Gadirova, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Pedagogy, spoke on “Continuation of the Implementation of the Action Plan of the First State Program on the Great Return to the Liberated Territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan,” highlighting the social, economic, and humanitarian aspects of the Great Return process, and emphasizing that ensuring human rights and creating a sustainable living environment are among the key priorities.

Nargiz Niftaliyeva, a lecturer at the Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, presented on “Raising Awareness Among Youth About the Importance of Family and Marriage, and the Negative Consequences of Early and Consanguineous Marriages,” addressing the psychological, social, and legal impacts of such practices and underlining the importance of awareness initiatives.

Another lecturer of the department, Aydin Karimov, delivered a presentation on “Promotion of the National Action Plan on Gender Equality (Men and Women) in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026–2028,” noting that ensuring gender equality is an integral part of human rights, and outlining the key priorities of state policy and the role of educational institutions in this direction.

Extensive discussions were held around the presentations, and participants’ questions were answered.

It should be noted that within the framework of the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture,” Mingachevir State University continues to organize scientific-practical and awareness-raising events aimed at promoting sustainable development, human rights, social welfare, and a safe urban environment.