Baku, August 4, 2025 – The Europe Today: Elchin Ilyas oglu Afandiyev, one of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated literary figures and a distinguished public servant, has passed away at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an era for Azerbaijani literature, culture, and public life.
Born in Baku on May 13, 1943, Elchin Afandiyev emerged as a leading voice of Azerbaijan’s literary renaissance in the 1960s, becoming a central figure in the influential “60s” generation. A prolific writer, playwright, critic, and literary scholar, Afandiyev authored countless stories and novellas that have been translated into numerous languages, earning him international recognition and introducing Azerbaijani literature to readers around the world.
In 1998, he was honored with the title of People’s Writer of Azerbaijan. A longstanding member of the Azerbaijan Writers’ Union, Afandiyev’s literary achievements were deeply intertwined with his cultural and political engagement.
Beyond the literary realm, Afandiyev played a significant role in Azerbaijan’s public life. From 1993 to 2018, he served as Deputy Prime Minister, contributing to the country’s socio-political and cultural development during a transformative period. As chairman of the “Vatan” society in the late 1980s, he was instrumental in strengthening the unity of Azerbaijanis abroad and advancing the diaspora movement.
In recognition of his exceptional services to Azerbaijani literature and culture, Elchin Afandiyev was awarded the Istiglal Order, one of the country’s highest honors, among numerous other state distinctions.
In a statement, the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan expressed profound sorrow over his passing:
“The Ministry of Culture expresses its deep sorrow over the passing of Elchin Afandiyev and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. His rich legacy and great contributions will forever live on in the memory of our people.”
Elchin Afandiyev leaves behind a towering legacy as a literary icon, a scholar, and a statesman whose life and work enriched Azerbaijani national identity and cultural heritage.
