BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 17. The protection and promotion of children's rights are crucial for their development and well-being, the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) of the Republic of Azerbaijan Sabina Aliyeva said in a statement, Trend reports.
She noted that the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) was adopted by the United Nations (UN) on November 20, 1989.
The international treaty, which has been ratified by numerous countries worldwide, encompasses crucial principles, including the prohibition of discrimination, prioritization of children's interests, the guarantee of the right to life and development, and respect for children's views. In Azerbaijan, as a signatory to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, extensive reforms in child rights protection have led to significant improvements in national legislation, the adoption of state programs and strategies, and the establishment of institutional mechanisms to meet contemporary needs.
The Ombudsman regularly promotes and protects children's rights. The Ombudsman designates October 20–November 20 "Children's Rights Month" in the country to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The already customary "Children's Rights Month" strengthens efforts to safeguard and promote children's rights, encourages caring for children, and raises awareness.
Aliyeva noted that this established initiative aims to enhance efforts in safeguarding children's rights, fostering greater attention and care for children, and raising awareness in this vital area. The experience shows that the month-long campaign aroused wide interest from public and self-governing authorities and civil society organizations, and the rate of similar actions has gone up.
The Ombudsperson highlighted the significance of child rights protection, especially in light of Azerbaijan declaring 2024 as “Green World Solidarity Year” and the hosting of the prestigious international event, the 29th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCC (COP29) in November. She emphasized that children, as a vulnerable population affected by climate change and its repercussions, require particular attention during this critical time.
"I regret to inform you that ecological crimes and landmines planted in territories under Armenia's long-term occupation endanger the lives and health of civilians, including children, and impede their right to a safe return. Since Armenia's military aggression against Azerbaijan, mine explosions have caused harm to over 3400 citizens, including 358 children. I firmly believe that international human rights institutions should take decisive action to address this issue and put an end to Armenia's mine terror.
Every state and independent society must prioritize the comprehensive provision of children's needs as a vulnerable category of society, keep them in the spotlight, and ensure their harmonious development and growth as trustworthy personalities.
In light of the aforementioned, I urge state institutions, municipalities, civil society organizations, and other relevant bodies working in the field of child rights to participate in this "Child Rights Month-Long Campaign" and encourage them to support our initiative by taking measures to protect and promote children's rights.
We do hope that the events to be held with the active participation of children within this month-long campaign will further bolster the attention to the protection of children and more effectively ensure their rights and freedoms," the Ombudsperson said.
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