Azerbaijan Transitions to Flexible Work Schedules: What Will Change for Employees?

The "Action Plan for 2026-2030 on the Implementation of the Employment Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan" provides for the formation of a flexible working time model based on best international practices. This initiative could fundamentally change the approach to labor organization in the country.

This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population in response to an APA inquiry.

According to the ministry's clarification, in line with the recommendations of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and other best international practices, flexible working time is a form of labor organization that gives employees the opportunity to independently choose the start and end times of their workday within certain limits, provided that the established total working time norm of 40 hours per week is maintained. This model is aimed at increasing the flexibility of labor relations, ensuring a work-life balance, and boosting labor productivity.

"In international practice, flexible working time is usually applied based on the principles of mandatory (core) working hours, flexible entry and exit intervals (for example, 06:00-10:00, 15:00-20:00), and the invariability of the total working time norm. At the same time, specific time frames and application mechanisms are determined taking into account the national legislation and labor market characteristics of each country," the ministry's statement reads.

As emphasized in the clarification, this work regime is considered most effective in such areas as information technology, finance, education, administrative and analytical areas of public administration. In addition, flexible schedules are particularly convenient for parents with young children, persons with disabilities, students, as well as employees working remotely or in a hybrid format. In sectors with continuous operations, the introduction of flexible working time is envisaged on the basis of special regulatory mechanisms.

"Toward the introduction of flexible working time in our country, in accordance with the target indicators provided for in the said Action Plan, during 2026-2030 it is planned to study international experience, conduct legal and institutional analysis, prepare relevant draft regulatory legal acts, and implement them in stages," the ministry noted.