BAKU—Azerbaijan is actively implementing initiatives to align with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, particularly focusing on the roles and responsibilities of states and businesses in conflict and post-conflict scenarios, disclosed Sabina Aliyeva, the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the ‘Law and Climate’ international conference.

According to Trend News Agency, Aliyeva’s remarks emphasized the significant impact of war on environmental degradation, citing the destruction wrought by the first and second Karabakh wars. These conflicts led to the illegal exploitation of natural resources, biodiversity loss, and the lingering threat of mines, all of which were highlighted as pressing human rights and environmental issues by Azerbaijan’s national human rights institution.

The ombudsperson outlined ongoing legislative improvements and the adoption of international norms to bolster environmental protection and sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She noted that raising awareness and coordinating efforts among state institutions, public organizations, and business entities are critical components of Azerbaijan’s strategy to adopt the UN principles effectively. Furthermore, the development of a national action program on these principles is underway, aiming to enhance the integration of human rights and environmental sustainability in business practices.

Aliyeva also revealed that educational materials regarding the UN Guiding Principles have been developed through initiatives led by her office with support from the United Nations. She announced an upcoming international forum on climate change and human rights, scheduled to occur within the framework of COP 29 in October. This forum will explore the intersections of climate change and human rights and will seek to foster further international collaboration on these critical issues.