The Ombudsman’s West Regional Center holds a legal awareness event on ensuring equality rights of persons with disabilities

At the instruction of Sabina Aliyeva, Ombudsman of Azerbaijan, the West Regional Center, within the framework of the Ombudsman’s National Preventive Mechanism and Independent Monitoring (IMM) mandate, held a legal awareness event at Pre-trial Detention Facility No. 2 of the Penitentiary Service under the Ministry of Justice. The theme of the event, which was organized for detained persons with disabilities, was focused on “Ensuring Equality Rights of Persons with Disabilities”. 

During the event, Sabuhi Abbasov, Head of the Ombudsman’s West Regional Center and NPG Member, spoke about efforts that are being purposefully carried out in Azerbaijan to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, and ensure their social welfare, rehabilitation, and integration into society. 

It was highlighted that Azerbaijan acceded to the UN CRPD in 2008 and is successfully implementing its obligations under the Convention.

It was further noted that the Ombudsman also prioritizes protecting the rights of people with disabilities. In accordance with amendments to the Constitutional Law “On the Ombudsman of the Republic of Azerbaijan,” the Ombudsman has been empowered IMM functions for the implementation and promotion of the CRPD.

During the event, detailed information was provided on the rights of persons with disabilities, including the rights of accused persons and mechanisms for their protection, the prohibition of discrimination, and the principle of equality. Participants’ questions were also addressed.