Online meeting of the Ombudsman with the officials of the Council of Europe and Civil Society representatives

The Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan (HRCA), Ms. Sabina Aliyeva participated in an online meeting organized by the Council of Europe (CoE). The online meeting has brought together the CoE officials and the representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs).

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the strengthening of cooperation between the Ombudsman Office and CSOs in combating discrimination.

During the meeting, the Ombudsman has highlighted the importance of the development of CSOs and increasing their participation in the effective implementation of public control. It was noted that the Ombudsman Office is a bridge between the people and the state agencies and that, it is important to cooperate with CSOs to carry out this role effectively. Ms. S. Aliyeva also stated that at the international level, CSOs are accepted as co-partners of the ombudsman and/or NHRIs, which is also is supported by the UN and other international and regional organizations.

The Ombudsman noted that the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan also provides the guarantees on the equality for everyone and that the HRCA carries out the measures to ensure the principles of equality and non-discrimination. It was noted that the Azerbaijani Ombudsman Institution also as the NHRI cooperates with UN treaty bodies, including the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. Ms. S. Aliyeva also expressed that this year, the HRCA submitted the next relevant Complementary Report on the state of the implementation of the CEDAW to the relevant Committee.

Taking the view that strengthening the cooperation between government agencies, independent human rights institutions and CSOs in combating discrimination to ensure the equality and equal opportunities for all in society is vital, the Ombudsman stated her readiness to support the activities in the concerned area. Then the Ombudsman answered questions from CSOs attending the online meeting.