The Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ms. Sabina Aliyeva, participated in the International Conference of Ombudsmen on the theme “Citizen Protection, Rights and Democratic Innovation,” held in Italy and attended by ombudsman institutions, human rights bodies, and international experts from across the world.
Speaking during a session entitled “The Future of Ombudsmanship in the World,” Ombudsman Sabina Aliyeva highlighted the growing impact of technological development and digitalization on the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The Commissioner noted that rapid digital transformation has created new challenges relating to personal data protection, digital equality, information integrity, and access to rights in the digital environment. She emphasized the need for ombudsman institutions to adapt to these emerging realities while continuing to safeguard the rights and interests of citizens.
Sabina Aliyeva underscored that ombudsman institutions and national human rights institutions remain essential democratic mechanisms that facilitate constructive dialogue between citizens and the state and contribute significantly to the effective protection of human rights and freedoms.
During her intervention, the Commissioner provided an overview of the activities carried out by the Ombudsman Institution of Azerbaijan, highlighting its role in protecting human rights, serving as a National Preventive Mechanism, conducting independent monitoring activities, promoting legislative improvements, and implementing public awareness initiatives.
The Ombudsman further emphasized the positive role of digital technologies in enhancing accessibility to human rights protection mechanisms. In this regard, she referred to the institution’s “916” Call Center, official website, and social media platforms, which provide citizens with accessible, efficient, and responsive channels for submitting complaints and obtaining assistance.
At the same time, Sabina Aliyeva warned that disinformation, information manipulation, cyber threats, and digital abuse present growing risks to the protection of human rights and democratic values worldwide.
The Commissioner stressed the importance of strengthening international cooperation among ombudsman institutions through the exchange of experiences, information-sharing, joint initiatives, and collective efforts aimed at addressing emerging human rights challenges in an increasingly digital world.
Her participation reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting human rights, democratic governance, digital inclusion, and international cooperation in advancing effective and citizen-centered ombudsman services.
