Azerbaijani ombudsman, OIC chief hold talks on enhancing human rights protections in Jeddah PHOTO

The Azerbaijani Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman), Sabina Aliyeva, held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

During the discussion, Aliyeva outlined her efforts in safeguarding human rights and freedoms, emphasising the significance of international collaboration, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

She highlighted her initiatives to strengthen cooperation with regional and international bodies, including ombudsman institutions and national human rights organisations within the OIC Ombudsman Association and the Asian Ombudsman Association.

“Strengthening joint activities between national human rights institutions of OIC member states is essential for more effectively protecting human rights and freedoms,” Aliyeva remarked.

Aliyeva drew attention to Azerbaijan’s territories being under Armenian occupation for nearly 30 years. She expressed satisfaction with the OIC's consistent support during this period, citing the organisation's recognition of the Khojaly genocide and its resolutions calling for the liberation of occupied Azerbaijani lands.

Discussing Armenia’s environmental crimes on Azerbaijani soil, Aliyeva described the extensive ecological damage caused, including pollution and the laying of landmines. “The absence of accurate maps for mined areas remains a significant challenge, endangering civilians and obstructing the safe return of internally displaced persons, as well as reconstruction efforts,” she stated.

Aliyeva also underscored the importance of increased support from OIC member states to address these pressing issues.

Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha expressed gratitude for the warm reception, recognising Azerbaijan as an active member of the OIC. He noted, “Azerbaijan’s liberation of its territories was met with approval across the Islamic world. I have personally witnessed the reconstruction efforts in these liberated areas.”

Separately, on November 24, Aliyeva participated in discussions themed “The Right to Health: In the Context of Islam and Human Rights” during the 24th session of the OIC’s Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission in Jeddah.

Speaking on “The Right to Health in Islamic Countries – Climate Justice and the Role of Ombudsman Institutions”, Aliyeva stressed the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in Islamic countries, which hinder the realisation of health rights and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

She also addressed the impact of armed conflicts on health rights, noting that “ensuring access to healthcare for women and children in conflict zones is of paramount importance.” Highlighting Azerbaijan’s progress, Aliyeva pointed to reforms in climate change mitigation and the country’s hosting of the prestigious 29th session of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29).

Aliyeva reiterated the severe repercussions of Armenia’s environmental crimes, including the contamination of water bodies and the destruction of rare flora and fauna during the occupation. She also raised concerns about the Metsamor nuclear power plant in Armenia, calling it “a potential threat to the entire region due to its outdated and hazardous condition.”

“The international community must not remain indifferent to such violations of the right to live in a healthy environment,” she urged.

The discussions concluded with a detailed exchange of views on issues of mutual interest, reflecting the shared commitment to advancing human rights and justice within the Islamic world.

By Aghakazim Guliyev