Baku, October 2^nd, 2024. An International Forum of Ombudsmen themed “Climate Change and Human Rights: The role of Ombudspersons and National Human Rights Institutions” jointly organized by UNDP Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijan's Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) was held in Baku.

The event brought together over 60 ombudspersons and representatives from National Human Rights Institutions, state and government officials, representatives of international organizations, public figures, climate change and human rights experts from up to 30 countries to discuss impacts of global climate change in terms of human rights violations and to exchange existing positive experiences in the field.

The consequences of climate change negatively impacting the environment may lead to the emergence of more dangerous environmental problems for humanity and are not limited to the territory of one country or region, noted Mrs. Sabina Aliyeva, the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) of Azerbaijan.

This forum serves as a platform not only for addressing the present challenges but also for nurturing future leaders, emphasized Ms. Alessandra Roccasalvo, the UNDP Resident Representative in Azerbaijan. Talking about the “Climate Change and Human Rights” essay competition organized in collaboration between UNDP and the Ombudsperson’s Office, Ms. Roccasalvo highlighted that energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives of young people remind us that their voices must be at the heart of climate action and the human rights discourse.

During the event, an award ceremony was held for the winners of the essay competition announced by UNDP and the Ombudsperson’s Office for students. At the end, the Declaration of the International Baku Forum of Ombudsmen was adopted. 

Media contact: Jeyhun Alakbarov, UNDP Azerbaijan 

jeyhun.alakbarov@undp.org