Azerbaijan advances equal pay through landmark labour law reforms
On June 8, 2026, the Government of Azerbaijan announced significant amendments to the Labour Code aimed at reinforcing the principle of equal remuneration for men and women performing work of equal value. These reforms are part of the country's ongoing efforts to align its national labour legislation with international standards and to promote gender equality in the workplace.
Key Provisions of the Amendments
The newly introduced amendments emphasize several critical areas:
- Equal Remuneration: The amendments explicitly define the concept of "equal remuneration for employees performing the same work or different work of equal value," mandating that employers ensure equal pay regardless of gender.
- Transparency in Wage-Setting: Employers are now required to adopt transparent practices in determining wages, thereby reducing the potential for discriminatory pay disparities.
- Strengthened Protections Against Discrimination: The reforms enhance legal protections to prevent gender-based discrimination in compensation and employment practices.
- Enhanced Enforcement Mechanisms: The amendments introduce more robust mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing compliance with equal pay provisions.
Implementation and Legislative Process
The amendment to the Labour Code was coordinated with relevant authorities and submitted to the competent law-making body. It was adopted during the third reading at the plenary session of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) on May 1, 2026.
In addition to these amendments, the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 332-VIIQD, adopted on December 30, 2025, introduced 457 amendments to over 150 articles of the Labour Code and other legislative acts. These comprehensive reforms aim to adapt labour relations to modern challenges, strengthen social protection for employees, ensure work–life balance, and promote gender equality in employment.
Notably, the amendments introduce concepts such as "employee with family responsibilities" and "remote (distance) work," along with provisions for additional terms of employment related to remote work. Furthermore, the law provides for 14 calendar days of paid leave for men whose spouses are on maternity leave, based on a medical certificate, covering the period around childbirth.
These landmark reforms signify Azerbaijan's commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive labour market, ensuring that all employees receive fair compensation and treatment irrespective of gender.
