A videoconference was held in Guba on “Protecting human rights and promoting multicultural values in times of pandemic”

On the initiative of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a videoconference was held on the topic of “Protecting human rights and promoting multicultural values in times of pandemic” in Guba. The representatives of civil society, NGOs, local communities and various ethnic groups have joined the event. 

The head of Guba Regional Center, Bahruz Afandiyev has moderated the videoconference and the deputy head of a department, head of International Relations Sector of the Ombudsman Office, Zaur Valimammadli greeted the participants on behalf of the Commissioner Sabina Aliyeva. He provided information on the Ombudsman’s activities aimed at effectively ensuring human rights and freedoms in the context of pandemic. This was mentioned as well that representatives of different nationalities, ethnic minorities have lived in Azerbaijan in an environment of peace, tranquility and friendship.

It was stated that the fight against COVID-19 pandemic requires national, regional and global level of strong solidarity. Touching upon the Commissioner’s special calls for ensuring the rights of vulnerable populations during the special quarantine regime enacted in Azerbaijan, he noted that this experience was highly evaluated by representatives of international organizations.

Z.Valimammadli added that ensuring equal rights and combating discrimination occupy an important place in the Commissioner’s activities. He reminded the cooperation with the Council of Europe within the Eastern Partnership program aimed at increasing knowledge and experience of staff members of the Ombudsman Office; noted the importance of the training-seminar held in Guba on “Combating discrimination in practice for field officers of the Ombudsman institution” with participation of civil society representatives and foreign experts.

Participants spoke about the significance of actions for promoting multicultural values, Azerbaijani nation’s contribution for the world with universal values like tolerance and peace.

Later, the representatives of the Ombudsman Office answered the questions of the participants.