Baku hosts International Symposium of Ombudsmen
Baku hosted the International Symposium of Ombudsmen themed “Strengthening the Rule of Law: The Role of Ombudsmen and National Human Rights Institutions” on June 18, as part of events marking the Year of Constitution and Sovereignty in Azerbaijan.
The event brought together human rights commissioners and heads of national human rights institutions from nearly 15 countries, along with high-ranking government officials, parliamentarians, members of international organizations and civil society, as well as human rights experts.
The symposium opened with an address by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, which was read out by Minister of Justice Farid Ahmadov.
Following the opening, a video presentation about the country was screened.
In her remarks, Sabina Aliyeva, Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of Azerbaijan, expressed confidence that the symposium would contribute meaningfully to discussions on the protection of human rights and the assessment of future prospects in this area.
She noted that modern challenges such as globalization, armed conflicts, and other global issues call for stronger international cooperation on human rights. Aliyeva emphasized the key role of ombudsmen and national human rights institutions as guarantors of the rule of law, particularly during conflict and post-conflict periods.
She also briefed participants on Azerbaijan’s restoration of sovereignty and territorial integrity by ending nearly 30 years of Armenian occupation under the leadership of Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev. Additionally, she highlighted the humanitarian consequences of the occupation, including the ongoing landmine threat that hampers the safe return of Azerbaijanis to their ancestral lands, as well as the reconstruction efforts underway in the liberated territories.
Farhad Abdullayev, Chairman of the Constitutional Court of Azerbaijan, underlined that in today’s globalized world, upholding the rule of law and ensuring the harmonious, stable development of state and society are essential for safeguarding fundamental rights and freedoms. He also stressed the importance of fostering effective collaboration among state legislative bodies.
Ali Ahmadov, First Deputy Speaker of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan, stated that the protection of human rights has become a supreme value in the country and is being successfully implemented.
Other notable speakers included Amina Bouayach, Chairperson of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI); Louise Holck, Chairperson of the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI); and Elnur Mammadov, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The symposium continued with panel discussions and concluded with the adoption of the Declaration of the International Symposium of Ombudsmen.
