SOCGOV 2026 adopts final statement based on thematic group discussions
Baku, October 23, AZERTAC
A Final Statement has been adopted following thematic group discussions held as part of the international forum “SOCGOV 2026: Digital Analytics for Smart Governance” in Khankendi.
AZERTAC presents the statement:
“We, the participants of the International Forum ‘SOCGOV 2026: Digital Analytics for Smart Governance,’ taking into account the outcomes of the discussions on the role of data analytics, artificial intelligence and digital technologies in shaping the future of social policy and governance, and emphasizing the importance of international cooperation,
∙ consider it essential to promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices, joint research, and the development of innovative approaches in the fields of social policy, data analytics, artificial intelligence and digital transformation;
∙ express our full support for the further development of the SOCGOV initiative as an institutionalized and sustainable platform for international dialogue, exchange of experience and partnership on the future of social governance.
In this context, we affirm the following shared principles:
∙ The effective use of reliable data and analytical capabilities, together with evidence-based decision-making mechanisms, is essential to enhancing the effectiveness, targeting and results orientation of social policy;
∙ Artificial intelligence and digital technologies create new opportunities for identifying social needs and anticipating future needs, improving the quality and accessibility of social services, and enhancing the responsiveness and efficiency of governance;
∙ Digital transformation should not be limited to technological modernization alone; it should foster governance models that directly address citizens’ needs and are inclusive, agile and sustainable;
∙ The application of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in the social sphere should be guided by the principles of respect for fundamental human rights and human dignity, transparency, accountability, security, protection of personal data and inclusiveness. Technological progress should not entirely replace the human element and appropriate human oversight but should serve the well-being of society and the realization of social rights.
Guided by these principles, we declare our support for the following priorities:
∙ The use of reliable data, modern analytical tools and evidence-based decision-making mechanisms in the formulation and implementation of social policy should be expanded;
∙ The responsible, ethical and transparent application of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies in social governance should be promoted, while ensuring appropriate human oversight and accountability;
∙ The protection of personal data, information security and the strengthening of public trust in digital systems should be prioritized;
∙ The accessibility of digital services and equal opportunities for their use by all population groups, including vulnerable groups, should be ensured;
∙ Social innovation and technological solutions should be promoted, alongside the continuous development of human capital and digital literacy in this field;
∙ The effectiveness of social policies and digital projects should be assessed on the basis of social impact analysis using measurable quantitative and qualitative indicators;
∙ Synergies and joint initiatives among public authorities, the private sector, international organizations, academia and civil society institutions should be supported.
We call upon all stakeholders to strengthen their collective efforts to advance human-centered, inclusive and sustainable digital transformation and to translate data and analytical capabilities into decisions that enhance people’s well-being and deliver measurable social outcomes.”