Ombudsman met with the newly appointed UNICEF representative in Azerbaijan

The Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ms. Sabina Aliyeva received the new UNICEF Representative in Azerbaijan Mr. Alex Heikens.

During the meeting, a number of issues related to cooperation between the Office of the Ombudsman and the UNICEF Country Office were discussed.

The Ombudsman wished success to the new UNICEF Representative to our country and expressed confidence that close cooperation will continue.

The role of the Ombudsman in the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for 2021-2025 was discussed at the meeting. During her speech, the Ombudsman informed the guest about the application of the appeal mechanism in the field of protection of children's rights and the work done to support the activities of the National Preventive Group. It was also noted that the Ombudsman's 24/7 916 Call Center took a special approach to receive complaints about children, and relevant proposals were developed based on the analysis of information recorded in appeals related to child rights violations.

It was noted at the meeting that in accordance with the mandate of the National Preventive Mechanism of the Ombudsman, educational talks were held during the visits to children's institutions, and detailed information was provided on the appeal mechanisms. Ms. Sabina Aliyeva has also noted that during the visits to the institutions located in Baku, Ganja, Guba, Lankaran last year, 123 children were surveyed to study their general awareness about child rights, the Ombudsman Office and its Call Center, as well as to increase children's participation.

In addition, the UNICEF Representative was informed about the establishment of a separate structural unit in the institution for more effective protection of children's rights and the activities of the sector.

One of the topics of discussion during the meeting was the development of juvenile justice in the country and the preparation of a report in this area.

In conclusion, the head of the UNICEF Country Office Mr. Alex Heikens thanked the Ombudsman and noted his interest in increasing efforts to further develop the mutual cooperation during his tenure.