Ombudsman Paid an Official Visit to Uzbekistan

Azerbaijan's Human Rights Commissioner, Sabina Aliyeva attended an international scientific-practical conference entitled “Human Rights in the Context of Digital Transformation: Modern Approaches” in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Speaking at the panel session titled "Women's Rights and Gender Equality in the Digital World: Protection and Opportunities," the Ombudsman noted that ombudspersons and NHRIs play a vital role in promoting the safe application of AI aligning with human rights. She emphasized the importance for states to identify the protection of women's rights in the digital environment and the creation of a safe digital space as key priorities.

The Ombudsman stressed that developments in the field of information technology have significantly expanded women's access to education, entrepreneurship, and public services. She noted that digital platforms have become an important tool for boosting self-confidence and promoting active participation in public life, particularly for women facing social or physical limitations.

The Ombudsman noted that recent national reforms have made significant contributions to ensuring digital development and innovative governance. She said that recently adopted strategic documents focus on promoting the safe, ethical, transparent, and human-rights-oriented use of AI.

The Ombudsman emphasized that it is of paramount importance to create a reliable legal and institutional environment that ensures women feel safe in the digital space, to integrate the principle of gender equality into the development and application of AI and other innovative technologies, and to foster cooperation among NHRIs in this direction.

Within the framework of the conference, the Ombudsman also attended an event on the topic "Women's Leadership in Decision-Making." During her speech, she emphasized the importance of creating real opportunities for women's equal participation in decision-making processes. She noted that by bringing distinct experiences and perspectives to the decision-making process, women can contribute to more inclusive and human-centered governance.

As part of the visit, the Ombudsman also held official meetings at the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, and the Constitutional Court of Uzbekistan. During the meetings, participants emphasized the necessity of advancing cooperation between ombuds institutions, parliament, and judicial bodies in order to protect human rights and freedoms and ensure the rule of law, while engaging in discussions regarding mutual exchange of experience. The Commissioner provided information on her activities in the protection of human rights and freedoms, noting that the friendly and cooperative relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan continue successfully in the field of human rights as well.