Sex In Azerbaijan: A Guide To Navigating The Scene

Azerbaijan is a transcontinental country between Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Baku, its capital, is a liberal country in the Middle East, with more European social behaviour than its neighbouring Islamic nations. Azerbaijan is a popular destination for sex tourism, particularly from Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. Sex work is illegal in Azerbaijan, but common, and sex workers often approach tourists in public spaces. Sex workers in Azerbaijan are often victims of human trafficking, and the country is a destination for victims of sex trafficking from China, Russia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.

Sex tourism in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has become a destination for sex tourism, particularly attracting men from Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. Sex tourism in the country is driven by factors such as simplified visa regimes for Gulf countries and Arab nations, the devaluation of the manat, and Baku's relatively European appearance and accessibility to entertainment not available in nearby Islamic countries, such as alcohol.

Prostitution in Azerbaijan is illegal but common, and sex workers can be found soliciting in cafes in the Badamdar district of Baku and on Nizami Street (known locally as "Torgovaya" or Trade Street) in the city centre. Sex workers also use social media platforms like Snapchat and dating apps to connect with clients. The going rate for sex workers in Baku is around 100 manat (USD 59) per hour, with prices increasing to 150 manat (USD 88) for higher-end services.

It is important to note that human trafficking is a significant issue in Azerbaijan, with women and children from the country being subjected to sex trafficking domestically and abroad, and the country also being a destination for victims from other nations.

Sex workers in Azerbaijan

Prostitution in Azerbaijan is illegal but common. Sex work is an administrative offence and punishable by a fine. Despite this, it is estimated that there are 25,054 prostitutes in Azerbaijan, some of whom are aged 15-18. Keeping a brothel is a criminal offence and punishable by up to 6 years in prison.

The country has become a destination for sex tourism, particularly attracting men from Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. This is due to several factors, including the devaluation of the manat, the European appearance of the capital city Baku, and the availability of alcohol and other entertainment not found in some Islamic countries.

Human trafficking is a significant issue in Azerbaijan, with women and children from the country being subjected to sex trafficking domestically and abroad. Azerbaijan is also a destination country for sex trafficking victims from other parts of the world. The government has taken steps to combat this issue, with laws prohibiting sex trafficking and prescribing penalties of 5-10 years' imprisonment. However, the effectiveness of these measures has been questioned, and in 2019, the country was downgraded to a 'Tier 2 watch list' by the US Department of State Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons.

Sex education in Azerbaijan

In one instance, a biology teacher skipped over whole paragraphs of lessons about the anatomy of genitalia and how children are born. In another, a teacher told a student to "let your mother explain it [sex] at home. Shameful!"

In 2024, a school in Baku began teaching sex education to teenagers as part of a pilot project. Sex therapist Shabnam Sadigova conducted the lessons, which covered topics such as adolescent puberty, contraception, abortion, gender-based violence, sexual orientation, and gender identity. According to Sadigova, children should be prepared for adulthood and protected from the consequences of casual relationships. Parents reacted with enthusiasm to the program, and specialists conducted training sessions with them.

Despite these efforts, sex education in Azerbaijan remains a sensitive issue. Students and experts agree that the subject needs serious reform. Research shows that adolescents who have received sex education are much more aware of the risks of violence and unwanted pregnancies and understand how to protect themselves. However, the number of abortions among minors in Azerbaijan tripled in just one year, and the country has been used as a transit point for victims of sex trafficking.

Sex trafficking in Azerbaijan

Sex trafficking is a significant issue in Azerbaijan, with the country being a source and destination country for human trafficking. The country's proximity to Iran, Russia, and Turkey, among other nations, makes it a hub for sex trafficking, with victims often exploited in these neighbouring countries.

Azerbaijan has been identified as a sex tourism destination, particularly for men from Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. This has resulted in an influx of sex workers, many of whom are foreign nationals. The country's visa regime simplification for Persian Gulf countries and the devaluation of its currency have contributed to this trend. While prostitution is illegal in Azerbaijan and punishable by fines, it remains prevalent, and the country has been criticised for inadequate law enforcement efforts.

The government has taken some steps to address sex trafficking, including establishing the Main Department on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and the Aid Centre to the Victims of Human Trafficking. However, there are reports of arbitrary detention and physical coercion by the Anti-Trafficking Department, indicating a need for improved training and a more victim-centred approach.

The US State Department's Trafficking in Persons Report for 2019 placed Azerbaijan on Tier 2 Watch List, recognising the country's efforts in victim identification and assistance but noting a decrease in prosecution efforts and inadequate screening of vulnerable populations. The report also highlights the lack of funding for NGO-run shelters, which provide critical support services to victims.

Azerbaijan's 2005 Law on the Fight against Trafficking in Persons and Article 144 of the criminal code criminalise sex trafficking and labour trafficking, prescribing penalties of five to ten years' imprisonment for offences involving adults and eight to ten years for those involving children. Despite this legislation, there are concerns about the identification of victims, particularly in internal trafficking cases, as authorities often fail to recognise psychological coercion, resulting in cases being classified as organised prostitution rather than sex trafficking.

Sex on the first date in Azerbaijan

Cultural Norms and Traditions

Azerbaijan has a history of conservative and traditional practices that influence attitudes towards sex and relationships. In the past, pre-marital sex was frowned upon, and being alone with someone of the opposite sex without a marriage license was strictly forbidden. Even today, traditional values and expectations persist, and there is still some resistance to the idea of pre-marital sex. Some people hold on to the belief that intimate relationships before marriage, including kissing and mutual touching, are unacceptable, especially for women, who may be labelled negatively if they deviate from these standards.

Societal Expectations and Pressure

The pressure to adhere to traditional norms can be intense, and deviating from these expectations can have social consequences. Women, in particular, have historically faced judgement and shame for engaging in romantic relationships or expressing their desire for intimacy. Even something as simple as smiling at a waiter can be misconstrued as an invitation for a sexual relationship. This environment of scrutiny and judgement can make it challenging for individuals to pursue their own desires and make personal choices without facing backlash or social repercussions.

Individual Choices and Experiences

Despite the cultural and societal expectations, individuals in Azerbaijan are navigating their relationships and making their own choices. Some choose to engage in secretive relationships, using parks or quick exchanges to meet with their partners. Others may opt for more modern approaches, such as utilizing online platforms for dating and discussion. There are also those who challenge societal norms, advocating for sexual freedom and the right to choose their intimate partners without judgement. These individuals are pushing for a more open dialogue about sex and dating, hoping to create a more progressive and accepting society.

Sex Tourism and Prostitution

It is important to note that Azerbaijan has become a destination for sex tourism, particularly from neighbouring countries. Prostitution is illegal but common, and sex workers can be found soliciting clients in cafes and bars, especially in Baku. This industry caters to both locals and tourists, and the dynamic between sex workers and clients can be complex, sometimes involving language barriers and negotiation through gestures. While this aspect of Azerbaijan's sexual landscape exists, it is separate from the dating culture and does not reflect the experiences of all individuals in the country.

In conclusion, sex on the first date in Azerbaijan is influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural norms, societal expectations, and individual choices. While traditional values persist, there are also voices advocating for change and a more open dialogue about sex and relationships. Ultimately, each individual must navigate these complexities and make choices that align with their personal beliefs and desires.

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