National Preventive Group continues visits

As it was reported, in the framework of National Preventive Mechanism activity of the Ombudsman, investigations are conducted on detention conditions, treatment issues, nutrition status, organizing medical assistance within the visits of National Preventive Group (NPG) against Torture to the places, which persons can’t leave on their own will.

Within the scope of this activity, the next visit by the NPG members was carried out in the penitentiary facility No.17 under the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice without prior notice.

The visit, organized on the basis of the requirements of Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the Constitutional Law on the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, was aimed at investigating detention conditions and treatment in the facility, also the addressed appeals; learning the status of ensuring the rights of convicts and conducting adequate documentation.

Within the visit, attended also by the physician member of the NPG, medical-sanitary units, dormitory corps, penalty isolator, meeting places, canteen and other sections of the facility were monitored regarding the detention conditions; as well as the current situation with arranging medical assistance, nutrition, supply of hot and cold drinking water, parcels, walking, meeting and documentation was investigated.

In order to investigate the treatment issues, convicts were received in a confidential manner by the NPG members in that facility, state of ensuring their rights, raised issues, documentation were examined; several appeals were provided on the spot. During the private meeting, convicted persons complained about the investigation carried out on their case and the court procedure; each of them was given legal advice, and their applications were accepted.

 At the end, legal-awareness discussion was held with administration of the facility and authorized staff members; recommendations were given in line with national and international legislation, including the European Prison Rules.