Last updated: 24 Sep 2013
Security and health
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Azerbaijan. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
It is strongly recommended that Australian travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before their departure. They should confirm that their insurance covers them for the whole time they will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in their policy.
It is also recommended for Australian travellers to register, before travelling, on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, in case of an emergency.
Health
Private medical clinics with facilities comparable to those in Western countries operate in Baku. However, medical facilities in other areas of Azerbaijan, and in government facilities generally, are often inadequate. Shortages of basic medical supplies are common.
Doctors and hospitals will usually require up-front payment before commencing treatment. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to a destination with appropriate facilities may be necessary. Medical evacuation costs may be considerable.
Malaria is a risk in the southern lowland areas of Azerbaijan, especially in summer. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria where necessary and to take measures to avoid insect bites, including using insect repellent at all times.
Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, typhoid, hepatitis, tuberculosis, brucellosis and rabies) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time.
Boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes. You should also avoid unpasteurised dairy products and raw and undercooked food.
The World Health Organization has confirmed human deaths from avian influenza in Azerbaijan. The Department of Health and Ageing advises Australians who reside in Azerbaijan for an extended period to consider, as a precautionary measure, having access to influenza antiviral medicine for treatment. Long-term residents are at a greater risk of exposure to avian influenza over time.
Australians intending to travel to Azerbaijan for shorter periods are at much lower risk of infection but should discuss the risk of avian influenza with their doctor as part of their routine pre-travel health checks.
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OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.