UN adopts Azerbaijan-led resolution on transparent public services

During its 61st session in Geneva, the UN Human Rights Council unanimously adopted a resolution initiated by Azerbaijan titled “Promoting human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals through transparent, accountable and efficient public service delivery.”

The resolution’s primary co-sponsors included Türkiye, Georgia, Ecuador, Kenya, Malaysia, and Thailand. Additional co-sponsors comprised European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, Brazil, Ethiopia, several nations from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, as well as member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry told Caliber.Az.

The resolution seeks to promote transparent, accountable, and effective public service delivery across the UN system, drawing on Azerbaijan’s ASAN service model—an internationally recognized initiative that has significantly advanced the country’s anti-corruption efforts.

Highlighting the broader impact of effective public services, the document underlines their role in protecting human rights and advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also stresses the importance of leveraging digital technologies and artificial intelligence to combat corruption, ensure equitable access to public services, and strengthen preparedness, response, and recovery in the face of natural disasters.

The resolution references the UN Public Service Awards, which ASAN service received in 2015, and notes that a panel discussion on the role of public services in promoting human rights and sustainable development will take place during the Council’s 65th session.

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the unanimous adoption of the resolution, along with broad international co-sponsorship, reflects global recognition of Azerbaijan’s achievements in transparent and effective governance and reinforces the country’s leading role in advancing public service reforms on the international stage.

By Vafa Guliyeva