Should you give up your seat on the bus – or is that a personal choice? What seems like a small gesture of politeness often reveals far deeper questions about social values, empathy, and generational change in Azerbaijan.
A new survey conducted by Media.az among Baku residents shows a wide range of views: from those who see giving up one’s seat as an unshakable moral duty to those who believe courtesy should depend on circumstance.
Tradition Meets Modern Life
For many Azerbaijanis, offering a seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities remains a symbol of good upbringing – a marker of respect passed down through generations.
“I’ve always taught my children to stand up for the elderly and for pregnant women,” said one respondent. “It’s a basic rule of decency that should be part of our upbringing.”
Others echoed the sentiment, saying that such behavior defines the very fabric of community life: “By this gesture alone, you can tell how a person was raised.”
But not everyone agrees. Some argue that politeness must also be practical – that fatigue, stress, or personal health can make such expectations unrealistic.
“No one is obliged to give up their seat,” said a young woman interviewed. “If someone’s exhausted after a long workday, it’s understandable. But if an elderly person clearly needs support – that’s different.”
When Empathy Becomes Selective
Respondents were unanimous, however, about one thing: the need to show special consideration for pregnant women and people with disabilities.
“It’s painful to watch a pregnant woman standing in a crowded bus while everyone stares at their phones,” said one young mother. “Giving up a seat isn’t just a courtesy – it’s a reflection of our culture.”
“Sometimes a person with crutches or a prosthetic is standing right at the door, and others pretend not to notice,” another commuter said. “That’s not just rudeness – it’s indifference.”
Many believe the solution lies not in punishment, but in education and example: “If children see their parents offer a seat with respect, they’ll do it naturally too,” said one respondent.
Experts: The Issue Is Cultural, Not Legal
Sociologist Rashad Asgarov told Media.az that in recent years, Azerbaijan’s younger generation has shown a decline in sensitivity toward vulnerable groups.
“Many young people think that since they pay the same fare, they have equal rights. But this isn’t about rights – it’s about social responsibility,” he explained.
Asgarov argues that public campaigns and positive examples are far more effective than fines or enforcement. He recommends visual reminders in buses and metro cars – a practice common in many European cities – to promote respect and awareness.
Transport specialist Eldeniz Jafarov agreed that etiquette can’t always be enforced, especially when passengers are standing for long periods. Still, he suggested hiring staff to assist people with limited mobility during boarding and departure, particularly in crowded buses.
The Legal Angle: Courtesy Over Obligation
Lawyer Shamil Pashayev, head of the Norma Legal Center, clarified that giving up one’s seat in public transport is primarily a matter of ethics, not law. Still, buses and metro cars reserve special priority seats for passengers with disabilities or health needs.
“If a passenger refuses to vacate a designated seat, the driver has the right to stop the vehicle and request compliance,” Pashayev said. “In extreme cases, police intervention is possible.”
A Question of Character
While Azerbaijan’s laws may not demand kindness, its society still expects it. Whether driven by tradition or empathy, the decision to stand up for someone in need remains a quiet but powerful reflection of who we are.
It’s not just about manners – it’s about what kind of public space we want to share: one built on indifference, or one built on care.
