New regulatory requirements for social network platforms and their providers in Azerbaijan

New regulatory requirements for social network platforms and their providers in Azerbaijan

Adopted amendments will enter into force after 12 months

On 5 August 2026, the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan adopted amendments to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On Information, Informatization and Information Protection”, the Code of Administrative Offences and the Law “On Protection of Children from Harmful Information”. The amendments introduce a new regulatory framework for age-restricted social network platforms and their providers, including requirements relating to age verification, protection of minors, personal data processing and the operation of platforms in Azerbaijan.

I. New requirements for social network platforms

The amendments introduce specific requirements for platforms concerning users under 18. Persons under 16 will not be permitted to create individual digital accounts, while providers will be required to implement age-verification mechanisms. Additional requirements will apply to users aged 16–18, including parental controls, enhanced privacy and safety measures and restrictions concerning harmful content and advertising.

The amendments also introduce specific restrictions on the processing of personal data collected for age verification. Such data may not be retained, transferred to third parties or used for commercial or targeted advertising purposes and must be deleted after the verification process is completed.

II. Local requirements for platform providers

Providers offering services to users in Azerbaijan will be subject to new local requirements. In particular, legal entity providers will be required to undergo state registration in Azerbaijan, including through a branch or representative office in the case of a foreign legal entity. Providers will also be required to maintain a contact centre for communication with Azerbaijani authorities and respond to relevant regulatory requests within five business days.

Failure to comply with the registration requirement may result in significant financial sanctions, followed by restrictions on advertising on the platform and, ultimately, measures aimed at reducing the platform’s internet traffic.

III. Practical implications

Although the amendments have been adopted, they will enter into force only 12 months after publication, i.e. expected on 5 August 2027. Providers will nevertheless be required to take certain preparatory steps during this period, including ensuring the technical capability to implement age-verification solutions.

The amendments represent a significant development in the regulation of social network platforms in Azerbaijan. Providers operating platforms accessible to Azerbaijani users should assess the applicability of the new framework and use the transition period to prepare for the new age-verification, data protection and local registration requirements.

“GRATA Azerbaijan” Law Firm
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Tel.: +994 (12) 594-60-10
E-mail: baku@gratanet.com
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