Azerbaijani ombudswoman, new UNICEF rep collaborate on child rights initiatives PHOTO

Azerbaijani Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudswoman) Sabina Aliyeva met with new UNICEF representative to Azerbaijan Saja Farooq Abdullah.

The sides discussed prospects for further cooperation in the field of children's rights protection, Caliber.Az reports, citing the ombudswoman’s office.

During the meeting, Aliyeva provided an in-depth overview of the initiatives focused on safeguarding children's rights.

She emphasised the active collaboration between the ombudswoman’s office and international organisations, including the UN and its specialised agencies, and highlighted the numerous significant projects which are being implemented.

Aliyeva also highlighted recent changes to the Constitutional Law on the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudswoman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, which have expanded the ombudswoman’s powers in protecting children's rights and several other spheres. 

Particular emphasis was placed on the issue of landmine danger in Azerbaijan's liberated territories.

Aliyeva underscored that the mines planted by Armenia during the occupation pose a significant threat to the lives and health of civilians, especially children. 

She stressed the importance of enlightening children about mine safety rules to ensure their protection.

Dr. Saja Farooq Abdullah has officially assumed her role as the UNICEF Representative in Azerbaijan in January 2024. 

Dr. Abdullah brings over 26 years of international experience in Management and Humanitarian Coordination, Health and Nutrition, and Early Childhood Development with international NGOs, UN agencies and governments. Dr. Abdullah worked in UNICEF Türkiye, UNICEF Maldives, the UNICEF Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa in Amman, Jordan, UNICEF Sudan and UNICEF Yemen, where she led various programmes for children. She also served in UNICEF Bangladesh as Chief of Field Services and coordinated the work of six field offices, from where she joined UNICEF Azerbaijan.

Under Dr. Abdullah's leadership, UNICEF Azerbaijan remains committed to expanding its work for children and young people in the country. Together with the government and partners, UNICEF will continue its efforts to advance child rights and reach all children with primary health, social protection, and quality education.

By Naila Huseynova