Category: Azer News

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mikhail Yevdokimov, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on February 6, 2026, Azernews reports via the ministry.

According to the MFA, during the meeting the Azerbaijani side expressed a strong protest over a statement made the previous day by Konstantin Zatulin, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Eurasian Integration and Relations with Compatriots, and a member of the ruling United Russia Party, regarding the sentencing of citizens of the Republic of Armenia in Azerbaijan. A corresponding diplomatic note was handed to the Russian side.

The MFA strongly condemned Zatulin’s long-standing statements directed against Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and his open support for separatism, as well as his attempts to distort court decisions concerning Armenian citizens convicted of crimes against peace and humanity and war crimes committed as a result of Armenia’s military aggression against Azerbaijan, along with his use of unacceptable language.

During the meeting, the Russian side was urged to take appropriate measures to put an end to the destructive activities of individuals such as Zatulin, whose actions undermine peace and stability in the region and damage relations between Azerbaijan and Russia.

A new scientific seminar has been held at the Institute of Information Technologies of the Ministry of Education and the Science, Azernews reports citing Azertag.

During the seminar, a presentation titled “Preservation and Relevance of National Identity in the Context of Digital Transformations: Smart Novruz Bonfire” was delivered, prepared as part of the scientific collaboration between the Institute of Information Technologies and the Folklore Institute of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS).

In his speech, Vice-President of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, Director-General of the Institute of Information Technologies, Academician Rasim Aliyev, outlined that digital transformation is rapidly penetrating all areas of society, and virtual processes have not been immune to the national customs, traditions, and ceremonies.

He stated that the processes of folklorization in the internet environment are closely linked to both national and global changes, noting especially that the rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies in recent years has led to revolutionary innovations, providing new opportunities for the study of cultural heritage.

The academician also pointed out that, in recent years, fruitful research has been conducted in collaboration between the ANAS Institute of Information Technologies and the Folklore Institute regarding the contemporary issues of internet folklore, the relationship between artificial intelligence and folklore, as well as the effects of digital transformations on folklorization processes, resulting in significant scientific and innovative outcomes. He noted that studying traditional ceremonies like the Novruz bonfire from the perspective of modern requirements and exploring both their positive and negative aspects is a demand of the current age.

Academician Aliyev emphasized that such research serves national interests and the preservation of national identity in both real and virtual spaces, while the development of technologies for the implementation of customs and ceremonies on digital platforms has become one of the crucial priorities.

Director of the Folklore Institute, Doctor of Philology Hikmat Guliyev, delivered a report on the preservation of national spiritual values in the context of modern technological challenges.

The speaker evaluated the relevance of the problem through the lens of globalization and digitalization risks to national identity, referring to Marshall McLuhan’s “global village” concept, Manuel Castells’ theory of the “network society,” Stuart Hall’s views on identity, and Margaret Mead’s ideas on cultural change. Additionally, he used Richard Bauman’s concept of the ritual’s performative nature to explain the risk of national customs and ceremonies losing their social function, and he stressed the need to “reactualize” cultural heritage, as well as ensure the preservation of national identity in new communicative environments with the help of digital technologies.

The speaker examined the Novruz holiday, particularly the Novruz bonfire, as a prime example of national customs and traditions in this conceptual framework, analyzing its new functional models in modern conditions.

Academician Guliyev drew attention to the reciprocal relationship between technological transformations and folklore, noting that scientific and technological progress, along with information revolutions, have created epochal changes and that social and demographic processes have deeply transformed the socio-cultural environment, giving rise to new channels for the expression of folk knowledge. He stressed that the communicative dynamics directly associated with technological progress have affected the “migration” of folk knowledge-from rural areas to cities, and then to the virtual world.

“Virtualization and digitalization not only condition technological changes but also socio-technological and techno-cultural transformations,” said Hikmat Guliyev, discussing the problems posed by urbanization, digitalization, and virtualization.

He also addressed issues such as the adaptation of traditions to modern life, the formation of folkloric behavior models in digital and virtual environments, and the need to preserve national identity, especially among younger generations.

The speaker highlighted new challenges facing folklore studies, stressing the importance of exploring ways to preserve national identity in the digital environment, developing models for the reactualization of resources that carry national and spiritual values, adapting traditional behavior and worldviews to new social life styles, and determining the theoretical and practical foundations for the transformation of traditional cultural creativity to digital platforms.

Referring to international experience, the scholar reminded participants of UNESCO’s 2003 “Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage” and considered the inclusion of Novruz in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009 as an important achievement in terms of international recognition of national identity.

The speaker also addressed the social and mythological functions of one of the main symbols of Novruz, the bonfire. He pointed out that while the bonfire is seen as a symbol of purification, renewal, and social unity in collective cultural memory, in modern urban and rural environments, it is associated with fire hazards, environmental, and other risks.

Doctor of Philology Hikmat Guliyev, referring to recent incidents involving fires and injuries during Novruz celebrations, said that this situation creates a serious dilemma between tradition and public safety, and calls for alternative models and technological solutions. In this context, he presented the concept of a “Smart Novruz Bonfire.” The concept involves a digital or physical model (such as a synthetic Christmas tree) of the bonfire that does not pose a fire hazard but preserves its social, spiritual, and symbolic essence.

The scholar emphasized that the technological capabilities of the smart Novruz bonfire would include holographic flame simulation, internet connectivity, virtual and augmented reality technologies, allowing Azerbaijanis living in different countries to gather online around the “bonfire.”

“As a result, the ‘Smart Novruz Bonfire’ concept could bring together Azerbaijanis from around the world, fostering integration around shared values in the symbolic-spiritual domain, preserving national identity, and strengthening ties to language, culture, and the homeland,” he noted.

Following the presentation, a wide-ranging discussion took place, with questions being answered.

Academician Rasim Aliyev then shared his thoughts on the presentation, offering suggestions and recommendations. He reminded participants that in accordance with a decree by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, 2026 has been declared the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” and highlighted that multi-faceted, multidisciplinary approaches to national customs and traditions would be required during this year, particularly with respect to the specific characteristics of modern urban life. “The urban environment must be safe and clean, not posing a risk to human life. For example, during Novruz celebrations, lighting bonfires can sometimes lead to damage to asphalt, disruptions in traffic, and the blocking of roads. Additionally, forcing children to jump over the bonfire creates life-threatening risks and can lead to serious psychological and physical health problems,” said the academician.

Academician Aliyev noted that the transformation of national customs in the context of globalization and cultural interactions is ongoing, but emphasized that the main goal is not to forget or distance from national values. Instead, the aim is to preserve the warmth, friendliness, reconciliation, and socialization embodied by Novruz and similar values, while reactivating these traditions in the context of modern challenges and eliminating their negative aspects:

“The synthesis of digital and cultural transformations results in new approaches and innovations, which require a fresh perspective on national customs.”

He emphasized that customs are not static, but transform over time under the influence of political, ideological, and technological factors. He praised the idea of the smart bonfire as an example of cultural transformation under the impact of digital transformations and as one of the socio-technological innovation projects.

Addressing the technological aspects of the digital bonfire concept, the academician pointed out the need for the creation of social networks for “Smart Novruz Bonfire” on internet platforms for various groups, the storage and archiving of collected data in individual family cloud systems, as well as the implementation of biometric recognition systems. He noted that the “Digital Novruz Bonfire” model, based on these innovations, could serve as both a family memory and a valuable resource for researchers.

Academician Aliyev concluded by stressing the importance of implementing digital solutions like the smart bonfire in ensuring inclusivity in society, noting that such initiatives would provide convenience and equal communicative opportunities for people unable to participate in family ceremonies due to illness, physical limitations, or distance. He also emphasized that the smart bonfire idea would unite Azerbaijanis living in different countries, ensuring their solidarity, virtual unity, and socio-cultural ties.

In closing, the academician underscored the necessity of expanding research on the impact of artificial intelligence and other advanced digital technologies on folklore and folk culture, as well as developing the conceptual and technological foundations for the creation of the “Digital Novruz Bonfire” and attracting the attention of the public, relevant organizations, and companies to these issues.

By restoring its territorial integrity and bringing alleged war criminals before the courts, Azerbaijan has pursued a rare post-conflict path that links sovereignty with legal accountability.

In modern conflict history, it is uncommon for a state to both restore full territorial control and subsequently conduct domestic judicial proceedings against individuals accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to that conflict. Azerbaijan’s post-war trajectory stands out precisely because it has attempted to do both.

Yesterday, after a long trial, the Baku Military Court finally pronounced its final verdict on several Armenian citizens imprisoned for serious crimes. A group of individuals who were once found guilty of illegal military activities in Karabakh, as well as war crimes, massacres of civilians, and acts of terrorism, received the punishment they deserved in the eyes of justice. However, this was justice achieved not by international law, but by Azerbaijan itself. The trials have been conducted in open court, with documentary evidence presented, witness testimonies heard, and defendants given the opportunity to speak.

But despite all this, there are many who want to justify crime or criminals in international tribunals. Several foreign experts who approach the issue from a legal perspective also note that such an indifferent, and even ambiguous approach to criminal acts in the international community clearly demonstrates personal goals and biased positions. For example, American political expert Peter Tase notes that the opinions voiced in the parliament of a country like France demonstrate a literal disrespect for the country’s legal principles. He assessed this act of France as a blow to the peace-building plan today.

“It is an incredible moment for the US government to achieve such an achievement after thirty years of conflict in the South Caucasus. I think that every state that wants stability in the region should express its support for these processes today. But I must say with regret that the voices coming from France today disappoint us. I think that President Macron is demonstrating his hatred for both Washington and Baku,” Tase said.

President Ilham Aliyev had publicly stated years before the war that those responsible for crimes such as the Khojaly massacre and other grave violations would eventually be held accountable. This position was reiterated repeatedly in official speeches and statements prior to 2020. The initiation and continuation of judicial proceedings after the conflict demonstrate a direct alignment between those statements and subsequent state action.

Azerbaijan’s experience is notable in comparative terms. Many conflicts end with ceasefires or political agreements while accountability for crimes against civilians remains unresolved. In numerous post-conflict environments, individuals implicated in mass violence avoid prosecution altogether, either due to political compromises, lack of jurisdiction, or international inaction. In this sense, unresolved justice often becomes part of what scholars describe as an ‘incomplete peace’.

British journalist Neil Watson says justice cannot be restored unless culprits are brought to court. He says historical precedents illustrate both the difficulty and importance of accountability. “Israel, for example, pursued Nazi perpetrators decades after the end of the Second World War, locating and prosecuting some individuals across multiple jurisdictions. Yet even in that case, many perpetrators were never brought to justice. Similarly, following the wars in the former Yugoslavia, only a portion of those responsible for war crimes were prosecuted, largely due to the involvement of international tribunals and coordinated international pressure.”

Neil Watson also underlined the diminishing effectiveness and limited enforcement power of international law in the current global climate, particularly in light of prevailing foreign political pressures. In his view, this reality reinforces Azerbaijan’s determination to ensure that the law is applied under such circumstances.

“Against this backdrop, Azerbaijan’s decision to pursue domestic trials, despite sustained external political pressure, represents a deliberate assertion of judicial sovereignty. International criticism and political lobbying surrounding the trials have been well documented, yet these pressures have not altered the course of the proceedings. The trials have continued based on national legislation and evidentiary standards,” he added.

Crucially, the court hearings have also produced material relevant to the broader question of state responsibility. Testimonies and documentary evidence presented during proceedings indicate direct links between Armenia’s state institutions and the armed structures operating in the occupied territories. Former military figures, including Levon Mnatsakanyan, stated openly in court that the so-called separatist armed forces were not an independent entity but were structurally integrated into Armenia’s military system. According to his testimony, senior appointments were approved in Yerevan, logistics and supplies were organised within the Armenian armed forces, and the formations constituted Armenia’s largest military grouping in the area.

Additional evidence shown during the proceedings has included footage and records relating to the military service of Arayik Harutyunyan and the participation of Bako Sahakyan in the occupation of Shusha. These materials contribute to the factual record regarding the chain of command and operational control during the occupation period.

The court proceedings have also clarified the function of the so-called ‘Nagorno-Karabakh Republic’. Testimonies and evidence suggest that this entity was created to obscure direct state responsibility for occupation policies. Its leadership operated as local administrators implementing Armenia’s military and political strategy in the occupied territories rather than acting as an autonomous authority.

From a legal perspective, as is heard also from experts, the trials reinforce a key principle of international humanitarian law: occupation does not dissolve responsibility, and the passage of time does not erase criminal liability. The presentation of victim testimonies, forensic evidence, and defendants’ own statements has contributed to establishing a detailed factual record of the occupation and the crimes associated with it.

More broadly, Azerbaijan’s approach offers a model that contrasts sharply with many unresolved post-conflict situations. By linking the end of occupation with judicial accountability, the state has pursued what may be described as a comprehensive form of conflict resolution – one that addresses not only territorial sovereignty but also justice for victims.

Whether this model will influence future post-conflict processes elsewhere remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the trials have established a documented legal narrative of the conflict, one grounded in evidence rather than political assertion. In that sense, the proceedings represent not only a domestic judicial process, but also an attempt to close a long chapter of conflict through law.

Azercell has launched a special campaign tailored specifically for young users. As part of the campaign, users who purchase smartphones from the Samsung Galaxy A17 or Samsung Galaxy A56 can benefit from a 50% discount on the DigiMax 5GB or DigiMax 10GB tariffs for 3 months.

DigiMax 5GB tariff package includes 5 GB of mobile internet, 300 minutes of nationwide calls, 1 GB of WhatsApp texting, and 150 SMS. The DigiMax 10GB tariff offers 10 GB of mobile internet, 600 minutes of nationwide calls, 1 GB of WhatsApp texting, 300 SMS, and 1 GB of internet for social media. Both tariffs are renewed every 28 days.

At a time when Azerbaijan’s judicial process concerning individuals accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity has entered its decisive phase, especially, with evidence examined, witness testimonies heard, and facts publicly disclosed, France’s National Assembly has chosen confrontation over restraint. The adoption of yet another one-sided resolution is not a coincidence, nor is it an isolated incident. It is, unfortunately, part of a broader pattern that exposes Paris’s unwillingness to accept post-conflict realities in the South Caucasus.

The question therefore arises: why France?

Only months earlier, in October 2025, President Emmanuel Macron personally approached President Ilham Aliyev on the margins of the 7th European Political Community Summit in Copenhagen, requesting steps towards easing tensions and restoring bilateral relations. That appeal, presented as diplomatic goodwill, now rings hollow. The subsequent actions of the French political establishment suggest that Macron’s overture was less about reconciliation and more about tactical optics.

This contradiction illustrates a recurring feature of French foreign policy under Macron: rhetorical engagement paired with practical obstruction. While Paris speaks the language of peace, its policies consistently undermine the very processes that could stabilise the region.

France’s posture towards Azerbaijan has hardened noticeably since the end of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. Instead of supporting post-war normalisation, Paris has aligned itself with revanchist narratives in Armenian politics, elevating emotion over international law. French lawmakers have repeatedly ignored UN Security Council resolutions affirming Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, choosing instead to politicise humanitarian concerns while remaining silent on decades of occupation, ethnic cleansing, and the destruction of Azerbaijani cultural heritage.

This bias is not merely symbolic. France has openly supported Armenia’s rearmament, supplied military equipment, and encouraged Yerevan to resist compromise at critical stages of the peace process. Such actions directly contradict France’s self-declared role as a mediator and seriously call into question its credibility within international diplomatic frameworks.

More troubling still is France’s apparent determination to disrupt broader geopolitical alignments. By pursuing an antagonistic line against Baku, Paris risks undermining US-led peace initiatives in the South Caucasus and obstructing the region’s growing engagement with the European Union and NATO. This is not diplomacy; it is strategic sabotage.

The background to this behaviour lies partly in France’s strained relationship with Washington. The public polemics between French and US leaders, followed by Macron’s repeated criticism by US President Donald Trump, were not trivial episodes. They reflected a deeper frustration within the Macron administration: France’s systematic exclusion from major US-driven geopolitical projects.

From energy corridors to regional security frameworks, Paris has found itself sidelined. Unable to shape outcomes through leadership, Macron has instead resorted to obstruction. The South Caucasus has become one of the arenas where this frustration is most visibly projected.

History supports this assessment. In the immediate aftermath of the war, France repeatedly attempted to stall diplomatic progress, advocating for formats that preserved old power balances rather than accepting new realities. It resisted initiatives aimed at opening transport links, delayed confidence-building measures, and amplified narratives that kept the conflict politically alive long after it had ended militarily.

Despite its ambitions to position itself as Europe’s strategic heavyweight, France has consistently failed to translate rhetoric into effective leadership. In the South Caucasus, this failure manifests as a preference for tension over transformation.

By adopting biased resolutions at a sensitive judicial moment, France sends a clear signal: it is not interested in justice, nor in regional stability. Instead, it seeks leverage, influence, and relevance, even at the cost of peace.

For Azerbaijan, the lesson is unmistakable. Sustainable peace in the South Caucasus will not be achieved through selective morality or parliamentary theatre in Paris. It will be built through respect for international law, recognition of sovereignty, and support for legal accountability; principles that France increasingly invokes in theory, but undermines in practice.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry has issued a message to mark the anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck Trkiye’s Kahramanmaras region, Azernews reports.

The ministry shared the statement on its official social media account.

‘In commemorating the anniversary of the severe earthquake that occurred in the Kahramanmaras region of brotherly Trkiye, we once again recall the profound pain and sorrow caused by this major disaster and solemnly honor the cherished memory of the victims of this tragedy, which claimed thousands of lives and caused widespread destruction,’ the statement said.

‘The state and people of Azerbaijan have always stood by Trkiye and share this pain as their own,’ it added.

The ministry also wished the Turkish state and people ‘lasting prosperity, well-being, and peace.’

The powerful earthquakes, which struck southeastern Trkiye on February 6, 2023, measured 7.7 and 7.8 in magnitude and left more than 53,000 people dead. Three years have now passed since the disaster.

On February 6, Italy hosts the opening ceremony of the 25th Winter Olympic Games, marking the official start of one of the world’s most anticipated sporting events, Azernews reports.

The opening ceremony will take place at Milan’s San Siro Stadium and will begin at 23:00 Baku time. With this spectacular event, the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be formally declared open.

For the first time in Olympic history, two Olympic cauldrons will be lit simultaneously. One flame will burn in Milan, near the city’s Arch of Peace, while the second will be ignited in Cortina d’Ampezzo, at Piazza Dibona, symbolizing unity between the host cities.

The Winter Games 2026 officially got underway on February 4 with the start of the curling competitions.

Azerbaijan will be represented at the Winter Olympics 2026 by alpine skier Anastasiya Papatoma and figure skater Vladimir Litvintsev. To date, Azerbaijan has not won a medal at the Winter Olympic Games. The country first competed as an independent nation in 1998, at the Nagano Games in Japan.

Azerbaijan’s best result so far was achieved at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, where ice dancers Yuliya Zlobina and Aleksey Sitnikov finished 12th in the ice dance event.

At the most recent Winter Olympics, held in Beijing in 2022, Azerbaijan was represented by two athletes. In figure skating, Vladimir Litvintsev placed 18th, while Yekaterina Ryabova finished 15th.

Azerbaijan earned its first-ever qualification for the Winter Paralympic Games 2026 in February 2022.

Cross-country skier Mehman Ramazanzade secured a quota place in the sprint category for the Beijing Paralympics, but unfortunately was unable to make his official debut after sustaining a serious injury during training shortly before the opening ceremony.

The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games will take place from February 6 to 26, while the Winter Paralympic Games are scheduled for March 6 to 15, with events hosted across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

A document included in the U.S. Department of Justice’s latest release of Epstein-related files contains an extreme and unsubstantiated claim alleging that President Joe Biden was shot and killed in 2019 and subsequently replaced by a body double wearing a mask, Azernews reports.

The allegation appears within an unverified submission embedded in the broader document dump. The text describes Biden as ‘an actor with a mask’ and advances conspiracy narratives involving clones and an alleged execution by firing squad.

The Department of Justice has not suggested that the claim is credible or supported by evidence. Officials have stressed that the Epstein-related releases consist of large volumes of unfiltered material, including tips, messages, raw records, and third-party submissions gathered during investigations.

U.S. authorities have repeatedly emphasized that the publication of these documents should not be interpreted as confirmation or endorsement of every statement contained within them, noting that many entries reflect unverified or false claims submitted by external sources.

Gilavar Photo Club has launched “My Urban World” International Photography Competition as part of the Azerbaijan Urban Campaign (AUC2026), organized by the UN-Habitat and the State Committee of Urban Planning and Architecture, Azernews reports.

The photo contest, accredited by the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) and the International Association of Art Photographers (IAAP), aims to showcase global urbanization processes through the lens of photography.

The theme of the competition focuses on various aspects of urban development, including human-centered cities, cultural heritage, historical buildings, the coexistence of the old and new, harmony between centuries and styles, green cities, ecological cities, “smart cities”, safe urban spaces, construction, renovation and restoration work, demolished or abandoned buildings, hazardous urban zones, the marks of time on the city, daytime and nighttime cityscapes, people and cities, and more.

The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026. The photographs will be evaluated by a panel of five professional photographers from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Singapore, Greece, and North Macedonia.

The best entries will be awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, as well as special ribbons and certificates.

An electronic catalogue featuring the winning photos will be published, and a photo exhibition is planned for May 17-22, during the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13).

The competition provides a unique opportunity for photographers to contribute to the global conversation on urbanization and its impact on cities worldwide.

Azerbaijan’s search for its representative at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is progressing according to plan, with strong interest from performers and songwriters, Azernews reports.

The scale of participation this year highlights both local creativity and international collaboration, as the country moves closer to choosing an act capable of shining on Europe’s biggest music stage.

A total of 100 applications were submitted during the selection period, featuring 186 songs in total. Of these entries, 107 songs were submitted by local authors and performers, while 79 songs came from international contributors. This means approximately 57.5 percent of the submissions were local, with the remaining 42.5 percent representing international participation.

During the initial evaluation stage, all applications were thoroughly reviewed by a professional panel. As a result of this assessment,18 candidates were invited to advance to the next round of the competition.

The shortlisted participants took part in live auditions and individual interviews, where their vocal abilities, stage presence, potential appeal to an international audience, and overall compatibility with the Eurovision format were assessed. Evaluations were carried out not only by the professional selection committee but also by a specially formed focus group, ensuring a well-rounded and objective review process.

Following these assessments, a final shortlist of three candidates has now been formed for the next stage of the competition. The selection process is ongoing, and the final decision will be announced after additional creative and strategic discussions.

The Azerbaijani delegation continues its work to determine the artist and song that will represent the country at the highest possible level on the Eurovision stage.

The 70th Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Vienna, Austria, in May 2026 after Austria’s victory at last year’s contest in Basel with JJ’s song “Wasted Love.”

Vienna is hosting Eurovision for the third time, having previously hosted in 1967 and 2015, and this year’s live shows will take place at the Wiener Stadthalle arena with the first semi-final on May 12, the second semi-final on May 14, and the grand final on May 16.

It is noteworthy that Azerbaijan reached the Top 5 in five consecutive contests – 3rd in 2009, 5th in 2010, 1st in 2011, 4th in 2012, and 2nd in 2013.

On 4 February 2025, ITV announced that Mamagama was internally chosen to represent Azerbaijan in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland, with the song “Run with U”.

Mamagama performed in the first semifinal on 13 May 2025, where they failed to qualify for the grand final.

Azerbaijan has confirmed that it will take part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, which will be held in Vienna, Austria. The country’s public broadcaster Ictimai Television (ITV) has officially stated participation in the event.

According to the official draw results, Azerbaijan’s representative will perform in the first half of the second semi-final on May 14, 2026, at the festival venue in Vienna’s Wiener Stadthalle. However, the name of the artist and the song has not yet been officially announced by ITV.