The Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated June 28, 2024, No. 1198-VIQD, "On Amendments to the Family Code, the Criminal Code, and the Code of Administrative Offenses," introduces significant legal changes. One of the key amendments affects Article 12 of the Family Code and will come into force on July 1, 2025. The revision expands the scope of prohibited marriages among close relatives and introduces stricter legal restrictions in this area.
Previously, Article 12 of the Family Code prohibited marriages only between direct blood relatives, namely between parents and children, and between full siblings. This restriction was intended to prevent genetic risks and protect family integrity.
The new amendment broadens the list of prohibited marriages to include the following categories:
- Children who share a common biological grandparent – that is, individuals who are cousins (children of aunts and uncles) through either the maternal or paternal line;
- Biological uncle (or maternal uncle) and his niece (sister’s or brother’s daughter);
- Biological aunt (or maternal aunt) and her nephew (sister’s or brother’s son).
With these changes, second-degree blood relatives are now also legally prohibited from marrying, and the framework for defining prohibited kinship in marriage has been significantly clarified.
The primary goal of these amendments is to prevent genetically risky family structures, protect children's rights, and promote a healthy family environment.
Marriages between close relatives increase the risk of genetic disorders and hereditary diseases, which is why many countries have similar legal prohibitions. The amendments introduced in Azerbaijan align with international family law trends and are aimed at ensuring social well-being.
Civil and family law professionals, marriage registration authorities, and notaries must pay careful attention to these amendments and thoroughly evaluate kinship between individuals of marriageable age. Additionally, public awareness campaigns regarding family planning and legal reforms in family law are essential for effective implementation of these changes.
