Abstract
This article critically analyzes the challenges gender studies face in Azerbaijan by examining the existing materials from academic journals, NGO reports, and popular press. Through a qualitative analysis of materials, I systematically examine the role and meaning of gender studies in Azerbaijan.
In this process, I ask the question, "What are the reasons behind the rejection of constructivist gender studies in Azerbaijan?" To find answers, I first examine the concept of gender binarism by studying the roles of the autocratic Azerbaijani system and patriarchal society. Secondly, I revisit the anti-queer/ LGBTQI+ agenda and analyze why and how queer studies is not seen as part of gender studies in Azerbaijan.