Baku: Azerbaijan has introduced new legislative measures requiring television stations to provide sign language translation for informational programs during prime time. The initiative aims to improve access to information for persons with disabilities, as outlined in a report by APA.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this requirement is part of the newly proposed Article 12-1 in the Law “On the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.” The proposal was discussed at a recent meeting of the Labor and Social Policy Committee of the Milli Majlis, Azerbaijan’s Parliament. The draft law ensures the right of persons with disabilities to access information by officially recognizing Azerbaijani Sign Language as a means of communication for individuals with complete hearing impairments. This recognition applies when the state language of Azerbaijan is used in its oral form.

Nationwide terrestrial television broadcasters, which receive state budget financing and hold public broadcaster status, are now responsible for incorporating Azerbaijani Sign Language translation into their prime time informational programs. These translations must be performed by individuals who possess the necessary education and qualifications. Additionally, the state is promoting the subtitling of audiovisual content to further facilitate access for persons with disabilities.