Appeal by the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Cases of Violation of Child Rights in the Media

Based on the investigations conducted by the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, violations of legal requirements are observed when information and materials related to individuals who have not reached the age of majority are disseminated by media entities and journalists.

Indeed, many media entities are observed to openly disclose personal information, including visual materials such as photos or videos, of individuals who have not reached the age of majority in the materials published or broadcast. Furthermore, materials published in a sensational and harmful manner, particularly those aiming to attract a large audience at the expense of children's interests, lives, and health, are especially regrettable.

According to Article 5 of the Law on "Rights of the Child" of the Republic of Azerbaijan, state bodies, as well as all physical and legal entities, shall prioritize the interests of children in their activities and create conditions for the protection of their rights.

According to Article 15 of the Law on "Media” of the Republic of Azerbaijan, it is prohibited for media entities and journalists to disseminate any information about individuals who are under the age of majority, who are under suspicion, accused, or affected without the consent of these individuals and their legal representatives.

In addition, the same law requires compliance with the requirements set out in the Law on "Protection of Children from Harmful Information" of the Republic of Azerbaijan during the publication and dissemination of information in the media.

The misuse of freedom of activity in the media and journalistic rights, that is, the dissemination of information prohibited by law or the disclosure of information sources in situations not permitted by law, leads to legal consequences as stipulated by legislation.

It is inadmissible to publish materials that may pose a danger to the life and health of children or lead to self-harm, including personal information about a child in such materials.

Therefore, media entities and journalists should pay attention to the potential consequences before disseminating any material related to children, and respect shall be given to the child's personal and family life, honor, and dignity.

The content of the prepared material should not contradict the rights and freedoms of children and should be used in a manner consistent with their legal interests. In addition, conditions should be created for the circulation of information products that are safe for children, promoting their comprehensive development and socialization.

Considering the abovementioned, I call on media entities and journalists to prioritize the interests of children and adopt a sensitive approach when disseminating information about children when they fulfill their professional activities.

Sabina Aliyeva

The Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman)

of the Republic of Azerbaijan

10 February 2024