Azerbaijan | Ombudsman organized seminar on combating discrimination

In the framework of the regional project on “Strengthening access to justice through non-judiciary redress mechanisms for victims of discrimination, hate crime and hate speech in Eastern Partnership countries” which is funded by the European Union the Council of Europe through the Partenship for Good Governance II programme, training seminar on combating discrimination was organized in Guba region of Azerbaijan, on January 29-30.  

The Ombudsman Sabina Aliyeva, head of CoE office in Baku, Zoltan Hernyes, head of EU Delegation in Azerbaijan, Kestutis Jankauskas, staff members of the Ombudsman Office, foreign and local experts, representatives of NGOs and local communities took part at the event.

In the opening speech the Ombudsman noted that the representatives of different nations, including minorities live in an atmosphere of peace, tranquility, mutual understanding and friendship in Azerbaijan. She emphasized that the Constitution and other legislative acts of the country prohibit discrimination and ensure the right to equality. Speaking about the activities on implementation of the mentioned project the Ombudsman said that the staff members of the institution had already taken part in international events held in Paris and Chisinau.

The Ombudsman also stressed the importance of effective protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and providing equal opportunities for them. She noted that she will continue advocating for ratification of the CoE Convention on Preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.

Recalling the Merida declaration the Ombudsman stressed the importance of the role of Ombudsman Institution as a National Human Rights Institution in realization of Sustainable Development Goals.

Source: Office of the Ombudsman, Azerbaijan