By Tahir Tagizade

May I disagree with the secretary general of the Council of Europe, Thorbjørn Jagland, on a number of points he raised in his article (Azerbaijan’s human rights are on a knife edge. The UK must not walk away, theguardian.com, 3 November). I believe it is essential to look at the bigger picture of the human rights situation in Azerbaijan.

It goes without saying that Azerbaijan has come a long way in strengthening democracy and human rights over the last 23 years. However, we acknowledge that there still exists a long way to go. I am sure the secretary general is very well aware that the country’s national legislation has been upgraded, taking into account the recommendations of the Council of Europe and Venice Commission. During its inaugural chairmanship at the Council of Europe, my country has prioritised strengthening dialogue and has taken concrete actions over a wide range of issues, including intercultural understanding, education, tackling corruption, youth issues, and gender equality, and has been a keen contributor to the Council of Europe.  

When it comes to efforts to politicise recent arrests in Azerbaijan, I should make it clear that before arriving at hasty decisions, it is crucial that law enforcement bodies are allowed sufficient time to conclude investigations. As it is the case in all rule-based societies, in Azerbaijan we firmly believe that people should not hide behind their professional activities when they breach the law. The law remains a law only if it is applied universally. If law is applied selectively, then it becomes an instrument of repression.    

As Mr Jagland mentions in his article, President Ilham Aliyev has welcomed Mr Jagland’s request to revitalise the work of the joint working group on human rights issues. As this joint group now restarts its work, bringing together authorities and members of civil society, we should focus on a cooperative working relationship as we look ahead to reach understanding on these issues. The government of Azerbaijan stands ready to strengthen its cooperation with the country’s civil society to work together to resolve these issues, not because of the outside interference or to please some organisations, but because we are deeply committed to these ideals. Furthermore, the president’s latest pardoning of the arrested people represents political will on the part of the government in achieving solutions to these issues. 

It is my firm conviction that the spirit of cooperation, not confrontation, should guide us through as we continue our work with partners such as the Council of Europe. 

(The Guardian)

Bakudaily.Az