Baku: The Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of Azerbaijan, Sabina Aliyeva, met with the Public Defender of Rights of the Slovak Republic, R³bert Dobrovodsk½. During the meeting, Sabina Aliyeva hailed Azerbaijan-Slovakia cooperation, including in the field of human rights, and highlighted the growing ties between their ombuds institutions both bilaterally and internationally.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Ombudsman provided insight into the reforms undertaken in the country to protect human rights and freedoms, as well as the institution's mandate and activities in this field. She also provided detailed information about the activities of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), which ensures the protection of the rights of persons held in institutions they are unable to leave of their own free will, noting that monitoring visits are conducted and issues related to treatment and healthcare are reviewed.
Sabina Aliyeva underlined the significant importance of the Slovak Ombudsman's visit to the country in terms of exchanging experience gained through the Azerbaijani Ombudsman's NPM activities and further enhancing cooperation. R³bert Dobrovodsk½ acknowledged the potential for applying Azerbaijan's positive practices in his country.
The discussions also covered prospects for future collaboration and other matters of shared interest. Following the meeting, the Slovak Ombudsman familiarized himself with the conditions at the Citizens' Reception Center. His visit also included meetings with officials from the courts, parliament, and the executive branch.