Summary of the Public Opinion Research Department's Activities for 2024

In 2024, the department achieved the following results:

Section I: One book and 12 articles were published (including two abroad).

Section II: 15 analytical reports and documents, 11 overview documents, 17 briefings, and 17 analytical documents based on surveys were prepared, along with the completion of 11 monitoring assessments.

Section III: 65 interviews for the media, official statements, and presentations at various events were made.

During 2024, the department conducted a variety of sociological surveys, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews on pertinent socio-political and socio-economic issues. They employed both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to gather data, which was then used to create analytical reports, reference materials, and overview documents. To shape public opinion, interpret, and promote government policies, the department published numerous analytical documents, provided media interviews, and participated in conferences and events with presentations.

The department's activities in the first half of 2024 were reflected in 185 outputs, including sociological surveys, focus group discussions, analytical reports, reference and analytical documents, as well as speeches, interviews, and presentations at scientific-practical conferences.

Public Opinion Surveys and Research Projects

First half of the year saw the organization of 23 sociological surveys, 11 focus group discussions, one in-depth interview, and two monitoring projects, reaching a total of 26,563 respondents from the general public and specific target groups. Of these surveys, eight were conducted using face-to-face interviews with computer-assisted methods, 13 by phone, and two online.

At the beginning of the year, the department conducted a public opinion survey related to the extraordinary presidential election of the Republic of Azerbaijan. As part of evaluating the President's activities in the first half of the year, the department carried out the twelfth research project in the "Trust Index" series. In addition, in connection with the parliamentary election of the Republic of Azerbaijan scheduled for September 1, 2024, the surveys explored public interest in political processes, attitudes toward the parliament's work, evaluations of MPs' activities, and expectations for the elections and the new parliamentary composition.

In light of the designation of 2024 as the Green World Solidarity Year and the hosting of the 29th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan, sociological surveys were conducted on the topics of "Current Environmental Issues in Azerbaijan: Social Aspects and Consequences" and "COP29: Gender Issues Assessment."

In accordance with Presidential Decree No. 2181, dated June 14, 2023, on "Additional Measures for Granting Permits for the Operation of Certain Non-Residential Buildings," and based on the President's Administration's instructions, a survey was conducted among the users (owners) of non-residential buildings. The survey aimed to evaluate the inspections of these buildings, the conclusions provided, and the level of satisfaction among citizens and business entities. An analytical report was prepared based on the results of the analysis.

In accordance with the 4.9 section of the National Action Plan to Strengthen the Fight Against Corruption for 2022–2026, a sociological survey was conducted on "Evaluation of Satisfaction with Services Provided by Government Agencies." Additionally, based on surveys regarding satisfaction with customs services in the air transport sector, an analytical report was prepared.

Furthermore, in accordance with Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 183, dated March 27, 2024, "On Approving the Technical Specifications, Internal and External Design Requirements for Vehicles Used for Regular and Taxi Passenger Transportation," and the ongoing reforms for regulating taxi services in the capital and surrounding areas, a survey was conducted among taxi workers and city residents. An analytical report was prepared based on the collected data.

As part of a broader initiative to enhance collaboration among Turkic-speaking countries, the International Turkic Academy initiated a research project titled "TürkBarometri 2024: Public Perception of Education Systems in Turkic Countries." This project entailed the conduction of sociological surveys among school and university teachers, as well as interviews with education experts.

Additionally, a comprehensive evaluation of government agencies and local executive authorities was conducted, encompassing 41 state agencies and 79 local executive authorities. This evaluation involved monitoring their stationary and hotlines, resulting in over 3,000 calls being made and recorded.

Sociological studies among young people explored topics such as internet and social media habits, awareness of digital rights, and the perception of vocational education and its alignment with labor market demands. Additionally, during the post-war and post-election periods, the department conducted surveys on issues such as the new national idea, goals for the new era, and the return to Western Azerbaijan (among Western Azerbaijanis), as well as other socio-politically significant topics, preparing relevant analytical reports.

The department's team has also presented its research at various events and meetings, including conferences, and has participated in collaboration meetings with prominent organizations such as the UN Development Program's Azerbaijan office, the Central Bank's Consumer Affairs Department, and the Applied Sociology Center of St. Petersburg State University in Russia.

Furthermore, within the framework of COP29 and monitoring events organized by the International Institute for Monitoring Democracy Development, Parliamentarianism and Suffrage Protection of Citizens of IPA CIS Member Nations (IPA CIS IIMDD), department staff participated in a roundtable on "The Role of Political Parties in the Development of Democracy and Parliamentary System in Azerbaijan," organized by the institute's Baku branch. Additionally, they participated in events commemorating the 160th anniversary of Ali Bey Huseynzade, organized by the National Heritage Research Fund, the "Fuyuzat" journal, and the Social Research Center, as part of the scientific conference "Second Turkish Studies: Our Language Issues," the "Actual Issues of Azerbaijan Studies" conference in Quba, and scientific-practical conferences organized in the Lachin district on the theme of "Great Return," supported by the Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan in Lachin, the Restoration, Construction, and Management Service of Lachin, and the Social Research Center.

A scientific-practical conference on the topic "...We, the Western Azerbaijanis, must return to this historical land..." was held under the organization of the Social Research Center and the Western Azerbaijan Research Center under the State Pedagogical University. The Baku Slavic University hosted a scientific-practical conference titled "Tracing the Path of Historical Heritage," which coincided with the presentation of two books: "Material and Cultural Heritage on Historical Azerbaijani Lands" and "Return to Western Azerbaijan: Material and Cultural Heritage on Historical Lands." Additionally, the Social Research Center and Baku Slavic University organized the 15th International Scientific Conference, dedicated to the 101st anniversary of the birth of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The theme of the conference was "Current Issues of Azerbaijan Studies: Research, Scientific Discourse, and Internationalization," and department staff delivered presentations.