Khankendi:SOCGOV 2026 is set to host discussions on the future of social services, emphasizing the integration of digital technologies to enhance government-citizen relationships. The initiative aims to improve the accessibility, responsiveness, and transparency of social services through artificial intelligence and digital solutions.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the SOCGOV initiative is significant for Azerbaijan, which has made strides in digitalizing social services. This development aligns with President Ilham Aliyev's policy focusing on citizens' well-being, resulting in five major social reform packages over the past seven years that have benefited 4 million people with an additional annual allocation of AZN 8 billion.
A major aspect of these reforms is the digitalization of state social services, with 90 percent of services from the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population now digitized. The Ministry's e-systems are integrated with nearly 80 institutional databases, offering 55 proactive services. Efforts are ongoing to apply artificial intelligence within these services.
SOCGOV, initially an idea by the DOST Agency, has become an internationally recognized platform for discussing innovative social governance solutions. The inaugural SOCGOV conference in 2025 declared the initiative a long-term platform, with plans for annual expansion.
Scheduled for October 23 in Khankendi, SOCGOV 2026 will focus on 'Digital Analytics for Smart Governance.' This venue is symbolic, showcasing the new life and smart city concept in Azerbaijan's liberated territories. The forum will include panels, discussions, and working groups on topics like digital analytics and AI in social services.
The event will feature the AI4DOST Social Award competition, recognizing AI-based innovations in social services and contributions to the sector. Winners will be announced during the awards ceremony.
SOCGOV 2026 has gained international attention, being included in the calendars of organizations like the International Social Security Association, underscoring the global relevance of the DOST model from Azerbaijan. The forum will demonstrate how AI and data-driven solutions can transform government services.