UN Human Rights Council Adopts Azerbaijan-Initiated Resolution on Transparent Public Service Delivery
Baku, The Gulf Observer: A resolution initiated by Azerbaijan titled “Promoting human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals through transparent, accountable, and efficient public services delivery” has been unanimously adopted during the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.
According to Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the resolution received broad international backing, with key co-sponsors including Türkiye, Georgia, Ecuador, Kenya, Malaysia, and Thailand. Additional support came from European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and several other countries, alongside the Organization of Islamic Cooperation as a group co-sponsor.
The resolution aims to promote within the United Nations system the principles of transparent, accountable, and efficient public service delivery, drawing on Azerbaijan’s internationally recognized ASAN Khidmet model—widely regarded as a successful anti-corruption initiative and a global benchmark in governance reform.
The adopted document underscores the critical role of efficient public services in safeguarding human rights and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It highlights the growing importance of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in combating corruption, ensuring equitable access to services, and enhancing public sector efficiency.
Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes the role of public services in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, reinforcing their significance in building resilient societies.
It also recognizes the UN Public Service Award—previously conferred upon ASAN service in 2015—as one of the most prestigious global accolades in public administration, and calls on UN agencies and international organizations to continue promoting best practices in this field.
As part of its follow-up actions, the resolution mandates the organization of a panel discussion during the 65th session of the Human Rights Council to further explore the role of public service delivery in promoting human rights and achieving sustainable development.
The unanimous adoption of the resolution, building on earlier consensus-based resolutions passed in 2018 and 2023, reflects strong international endorsement of Azerbaijan’s governance model and its growing leadership role in advancing transparent and accountable public administration worldwide.
