The Chief of Staff of the Ombudsman Office provided information on war crimes that Azerbaijan has suffered

The Chief of Staff of the Ombudsman Office, Aydin Safikhanli, participated in the ENNHRI seminar on the theme “Role and Functions of NHRIs in Conflict Situations,” held in Brussels. 

The Chief of Staff, in his speech, provided information on the Ombudsman’s activities towards the implementation of IHL norms, including the works carried out in full compliance with international law and IHL norms during the conflict period.   

A. Safikhanli noted that the norms of international law, including IHL norms, have been violated by Armenia during the occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan that lasted three decades. Speaking about the mine terror of Armenia, he said that mine problems existing in our territories create serious obstacles to the health and lives of the civilian population, as well as the return of former IDPs to their homes. In addition, the missing of about 4000 Azerbaijanis since the First Karabakh War until today, about whom no information is available so far, was also emphasized.  

The Chief of Staff also brought to the attention that the reports based on fact-finding missions conducted by the Ombudsman in areas of civilian attacks targeted by Armenia during the Second Karabakh War and post-war period, as well as in territories destroyed during the occupation, as well as statements and appeals, were prepared and submitted to international organizations, ombuds, and NHRIs of other countries. 

A.Safikanli, who subsequently made a speech at the ENNHRI General Assembly, informed the participants on the activities of the Azerbaijan Ombudsman in the field of protection of human rights and freedoms, achieved good practices, and international cooperation.