In accordance with the Civil Defense Action Plan of the Institute of Geography of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026, an awareness-raising event dedicated to March 1 – World Civil Defense Day was held. The event was organized by the Civil Defense Headquarters of the Institute.

     March 1 – World Civil Defense Day was established by decision of the International Civil Defence Organization and is observed annually as a large-scale humanitarian event. It should be noted that, in accordance with the decision of the General Assembly of the organization, since 1972 March 1 has been celebrated as World Civil Defense Day in member states. Azerbaijan joined this prestigious international organization in 1993.

       Speaking at the event, Head of the Civil Defense Headquarters Ruslan Mammadov provided information about the history of the civil defense system, its main objectives, and the importance of awareness-raising activities. He emphasized that the primary goal of civil defense is to protect the population from emergencies, reduce potential risks, and minimize the consequences of natural and man-made disasters.

        Head of the Institute’s Administrative Department, Gamdulla Aliyev, highlighted the important role of civil defense in public life. He noted that every individual should be aware of the rules of conduct during emergencies and other hazardous situations. Such knowledge helps prevent panic, facilitates prompt and correct decision-making, and contributes to safeguarding human life and health.

    Chairman of the Trade Union Organization Kamran Ramazanli, in his speech, recalled the severe consequences of the devastating earthquake that struck the Turkey in 2023 and stressed the importance of preparedness and rapid response to emergencies. He stated that timely preventive measures and proper conduct during natural disasters significantly contribute to reducing casualties.

    As part of the event, participants were provided with recommendations on the prevention of emergencies and the elimination of their consequences, and visual materials were demonstrated. An exhibition dedicated to civil defense was organized in the Institute’s lobby. The exhibition featured personal protective equipment, various devices, firefighting equipment, and detailed information on first aid procedures.

    At the conclusion of the event, the importance of holding such activities on a regular basis was emphasized, and the significance of increasing employees’ preparedness for emergency situations was noted.