Azerbaijan Ombudsman Highlights Digital Rights Challenges at International Conference in Italy
Rome, The Gulf Observer: Azerbaijan’s Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman), Sabina Aliyeva, participated in the International Conference of Ombudsmen held in Italy under the theme “Civil Protection, Rights and Democratic Innovation,” where she emphasized the growing impact of digitalization on human rights protection.
According to Azerbaijan’s Ombudsman Office, Aliyeva addressed participants during a session titled “The Future of Ombudsmanship in the World,” highlighting that rapid technological advancement and digital transformation are creating new challenges related to the protection of human rights and freedoms, data privacy, and digital equality.
She stressed that ombudsman institutions and national human rights bodies serve as vital democratic mechanisms that facilitate legal dialogue between citizens and the state while contributing to the effective protection of fundamental rights.
During her remarks, Aliyeva outlined the activities of Azerbaijan’s Ombudsman institution, noting that it also functions as a national preventive mechanism and an independent monitoring body. She said the office has put forward legislative improvement proposals and carried out extensive public awareness initiatives aimed at strengthening human rights protection.
The Ombudsman underscored the importance of digital technologies in expanding access to human rights mechanisms. She pointed to the institution’s “916” Call Center, official website, and social media platforms as tools that have enabled more accessible, efficient, and responsive complaint procedures for citizens.
Aliyeva also drew attention to emerging threats posed by disinformation, information manipulation, and cyber risks, warning that such challenges require enhanced vigilance from human rights institutions worldwide.
She called for stronger international cooperation among ombudsman offices, emphasizing the importance of exchanging experience and information, undertaking joint initiatives, and promoting international solidarity in addressing evolving human rights concerns.
The conference brought together ombudsmen and human rights officials from various countries to discuss emerging challenges and share best practices for protecting citizens’ rights in an increasingly digital environment. Aliyeva’s participation reflected Azerbaijan’s continued engagement with international human rights mechanisms and its efforts to adapt rights protection frameworks to technological developments.
