In Geneva, Azerbaijan expresses concern over rise in racism and Islamophobia in Europe
Azerbaijan believes that the protection and promotion of the right to development, as well as economic, social and cultural rights and other human rights, form the basis of democracy, peace and prosperity.
As Report informs, this is stated in a declaration by the Permanent Mission of Azerbaijan to the UN Office in Geneva and other international organizations, delivered during an interactive dialogue within the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council on the annual report of the High Commissioner.
The statement notes that the South Caucasus today has received a historic opportunity to transform from a region of confrontation into a space of cooperation.
"The benefits of this are already evident. Azerbaijan has opened and offered new economic, trade and transit prospects not only for its immediate neighbors but also beyond the region," the document says.
It is emphasized that one of the government's main priorities is the return of internally displaced persons to their homes, as well as restoration and reconstruction work. At the same time, the right to return and a dignified life are called important human rights.
It is noted that the realization of these rights, as well as the identification of thousands of missing persons, is hampered by the large-scale contamination of territories with mines and unexploded ordnance. Azerbaijan calls on the international community not to remain indifferent and to show solidarity.
The statement also expresses concern over ongoing human rights issues, including racism and discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities in the EU, the rise of Islamophobia and increasing social intolerance.
Reports are noted of unequal treatment of migrants and asylum seekers, as well as practices that raise questions regarding equal access to dignity, protection and rights.
The document stresses that human rights must be consistently promoted without discrimination, and effective international cooperation must be based on mutual respect, objectivity and equal standards.
