People and Language in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, a beautiful country nestled at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its diverse population and unique language. As of early 2024, the population of Azerbaijan exceeds 10.68 million, reflecting a vibrant mix of ethnicities and cultures that contribute to the nation’s identity.

Population Overview

The demographic landscape of Azerbaijan is predominantly composed of Azerbaijanis, who make up approximately 91.6% of the population. This majority is complemented by a variety of ethnic minorities, accounting for 8.4% of the population. Among these minorities are Russians (1.3%), Lezgins (2.0%), and Talysh (1.3%). Additionally, the population includes Avars, Turks, Tatars, Ukrainians, Tsakhurs, Georgians (Ingiloys), Kurds, and Tats, among others. This rich tapestry of cultures enhances the social fabric of the nation, creating a welcoming and diverse environment.

Urbanization has also played a significant role in the demographic dynamics of Azerbaijan. As of July 2013, approximately 53.1% of the population resided in urban areas, while 46.9% lived in rural regions. This urban-rural divide influences various aspects of life in Azerbaijan, including access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

The expected lifespan in Azerbaijan, as of 2008, is 72.6 years, with men averaging 69.9 years and women 75.4 years. This statistic reflects the advancements in healthcare and living standards that have occurred in recent years.

Azerbaijani Language

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani, which belongs to the Oguz subgroup of the Turkic languages. This language shares similarities with other Turkic languages, such as Turkish and Turkmen, yet it also exhibits distinct features typical of the Kipchak area languages. Azerbaijani is a vital part of the country’s cultural identity and is spoken by millions around the globe.

Modern Azerbaijani is characterized by various dialects that reflect the country’s regional diversity. These dialects can be categorized into several groups:

• Eastern Group: Includes dialects from Baku, Quba, Shamakhi, as well as Lankaran and Mugan.
• Western Group: Encompasses dialects from Ganja, Gazakh, Karabakh, and Ayrum.
• Northern Group: Features dialects from Sheki and the Zaqatala-Qakh region.
• Southern Group: Consists of dialects from Nakhchivan and Ordubad.

Furthermore, Azerbaijani dialects can also be found among ethnic Azerbaijanis living in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Russia (particularly in Dagestan), Georgia, and Turkey. It is estimated that the total number of ethnic Azerbaijanis worldwide ranges from 35 to 50 million.

The importance of the Azerbaijani language is celebrated annually on August 1st, known as the Day of Azerbaijani Alphabet and Language. This day highlights the significance of language in preserving cultural heritage and fostering national identity.