Country Profile: Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, a secular republic located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, boasts a diverse terrain marked by the Caspian Sea and the Great Caucasus Mountains. It has a population of approximately 10.7 million people, predominantly Azerbaijani, with a rich cultural heritage influenced by various ethnic groups. The economy heavily relies on oil and gas resources, although challenges such as corruption and limited economic diversification persist. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Azerbaijan has undergone significant infrastructure development amidst ongoing governance challenges.
Geography
Azerbaijan is situated in Southwestern Asia, bordered by the Caspian Sea to the east, and neighboring countries including Iran, Russia, Armenia, and Turkey. The country's area totals approximately 86,600 square kilometers, with diverse geological features ranging from flat lowlands to striking mountain ranges.
- Total area: 86,600 sq km
- Land boundaries: 2,468 km with Armenia, Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey.
- Highest point: 4,466 m (Bazarduzu Dagi).
- Lowest point: -28 m (Caspian Sea).
- Natural resources: Includes petroleum, natural gas, and iron ore.
People and Society
Azerbaijan has an estimated population of about 10.7 million, with a slight gender imbalance favoring males. The country is ethnically diverse, with over 80 groups, primarily Azerbaijani. The predominant religion is Islam, particularly Shia Islam, although many citizens view their affiliation as nominal.
- Population (2024 est.): 10,650,239
- Urban population: 57.6% of total (2023).
- Literacy rate: 100% (2023).
- Life expectancy: 75.9 years (2024).
- Birth rate: 11.2 births/1,000 population (2024).
Economy
Azerbaijan's economy is classified as upper-middle-income and remains significantly oil-dependent, with a focus on state-owned enterprises. The country has shown some economic resilience, but remains vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy prices.
- GDP (2024 est.): $74.316 billion (official exchange rate).
- Real GDP growth rate: 4.1% (2024 est.).
- Unemployment rate: 5.6% (2024 est.).
- Exports of goods and services: $34.113 billion (2024 est.).
- Public debt: 16.8% of GDP (2021 est.).
Government
Azerbaijan operates as a presidential republic, with the governance structure highlighting the dominance of the ruling family since the 1990s. The president serves as both head of state and head of government, and there are ongoing concerns regarding democratic processes and authoritarian governance.
- Capital: Baku, the world’s lowest capital city at approximately 28 m below sea level.
- Current president: Ilham ALIYEV since 2003.
- Legislature: Unicameral National Assembly with 125 members.
- Suffrage: Universal at 18 years of age.
Military and Security
Azerbaijan maintains a robust military, with an estimated 100,000 active personnel as of 2025. The military focus primarily revolves around territorial defense, especially concerning Armenia, amid ongoing regional tensions.
- Military expenditure (2024 est.): 5.1% of GDP.
- Established armed forces: 1991.
- Military service age: 18-25 years for compulsory service.
- Military equipment modernization: Ongoing with acquisitions from various countries.
Energy
Azerbaijan's energy sector is pivotal to its economy, with a significant portion of electricity generated from fossil fuels. The nation is a key player in the global energy market, particularly in natural gas.
- Total petroleum production: 618,000 bbl/day (2023 est.).
- Natural gas production: 35.775 billion cubic meters (2023 est.).
- Electricity consumption: 23.857 billion kWh (2023 est.).
- Electricity access: 100% of the population (2022 est.).
Environment
The environmental challenges faced by Azerbaijan include severe pollution and water management issues, largely attributable to its industrial activities. The country is party to several international environmental agreements.
- Total renewable water resources: 34.68 billion cubic meters (2020 est.).
- Agricultural land: 57.8% (2022 est.).
- Air pollution measures: Engaged in various international environmental protocols.
Transportation
Azerbaijan has a well-established transportation network comprising road, rail, and air travel, including a significant merchant marine presence for trade activities.
- Airports: 32 (2025).
- Railways: 2,944.3 km (2017).
- Merchant marine fleet: 312 vessels (2023).
Communications
The communications sector in Azerbaijan includes a mix of state-owned and private media, with high rates of mobile and internet usage.
- Internet users: 89% of the population (2023 est.).
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 11 million (2023 est.).
- Fixed-line subscriptions: 1.635 million (2023 est.).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,650,239 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 86,600 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (official exchange rate) | $74.316 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 5.6% | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 75.9 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth rate | 11.2 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Military expenditure | 5.1% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy rate | 100% | 2023 estimate |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Natural gas production | 35.775 billion cubic m | 2023 estimate |
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