Azerbaijan marks International Human Rights Day with focus on climate justice

The Office of the Ombudsman of Azerbaijan, with support from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), organized an event to commemorate International Human Rights Day on December 10.

Ombudsman Sabina Aliyeva highlighted the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing its role in shaping global human rights policies. She also criticized the international community's indifference to widespread human rights violations, noting that many nations still struggle against colonialism and injustice.

Aliyeva addressed Azerbaijan’s experiences with double standards, drawing attention to the long-standing occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia and the resulting destruction of cultural heritage, environmental degradation, and landmine contamination.

The Ombudsman underlined Azerbaijan’s recent efforts in promoting human rights and environmental protection, noting the significance of hosting the COP29 conference. Within this framework, the Ombudsman Office organized the International Baku Forum of Ombudsmen and an interactive discussion on “Climate justice based on human rights: the role of national human rights institutions.”

The event also celebrated the winners of journalistic and children’s art competitions on “Climate change and human rights.” Aghaali Ibrahimov, Deputy Chairman of the Union of Artists of Azerbaijan, participated as the jury head for the painting competition and presented awards to the winners.