Azerbaijan University is actively involved in studying and implementing the scientific and methodological framework developed by Turkiye in the field of probation. This includes not only the application of Turkish practices in our contry but also raising public awareness in this area. The University was also represented during a study visit aimed at familiarizing participants with the functioning of probation and other correctional institutions in the brotherly country, facilitating mutual exchange of experience. The delegation for this training and experience exchange visit included leaders from the Probation Service of the Ministry of Justice, the Social Services Agency, the Youth Foundation, as well as the director of the Center for Socio-Psychological Research and Counseling at Azerbaijan University, Aygun Muradly.

Led by Vugar Agayev, Head of the Probation Service at the Ministry of Justice, the Azerbaijani delegation began their visit by laying flowers at the monument to the national leader in Heydar Aliyev Park in Ankara.

During the visit, which holds particular significance in terms of aligning Azerbaijan’s criminal and penal legislation, as well as its practical application, with international legal standards and the experience of foreign countries, the history and essence of probation activities, which Turkiye celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, the functions and powers of the probation bodies of Turkiye, rehabilitation of persons registered in probation, including persons receiving compulsory treatment for drug addiction, reintegration and social adaptation of minors into society, educational and socio-psychological support programs applied to them, innovative technological practices in probation such as electronic bracelets, digital monitoring technologies and other topics were also discussed and experience was exchanged.

Participants visited several Turkish justice institutions, including the General Directorate of Prisons and Detention Houses, the Ankara Regional Probation Office, the Ankara Juvenile Facility, the Sincan Open Penal Institution, the Office of the Chief Prosecutor of the Republic of Kırıkkale, and “Hüzur Köy” – a center focused on addiction treatment and social reintegration. These visits provided firsthand insight into the operational mechanisms in place.

During the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation held meetings with Enis Yavuz Yıldırım, head of the General Directorate of Prisons and Detention Houses of Turkiye; Huseyin Şık, head of the Probation District Office; Akın Çetin, chief prosecutor of Kırıkkale; and other officials. The Azerbaijani side presented detailed information on recent reforms and innovations in its own probation system. Mutually beneficial views were exchanged on the positive experience of both countries in this field, applied training and socio-psychological support programs, as well as the fight against addiction, restorative justice and digital monitoring technologies, and the parties shared their positive experience in probation, social adaptation and rehabilitation.

A significant portion of the visit focused on strengthening cooperation in the socio-psychological field. Aygun Muradli engaged in discussions with Turkish experts about rehabilitation programs, social reintegration efforts, and mechanisms for psychological support.

Aygun Muradli also met with Professor Elif Gökçearslan of Ankara University, who is scheduled to speak at the plenary session of the 2nd International Conference on “Social Work & Social Research”. The two exchanged views on various topics related to the upcoming conference.

Public Relations Department