"Citizens have become subjects"

Human Rights Day in Azerbaijan, celebrated on June 18 since 2007, went unnoticed this year, much like in recent years. In light of this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement affirming Azerbaijan's commitment to the principles of human rights and fundamental freedoms as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the state program for human rights protection. However, international organizations have consistently classified Azerbaijan as a "non-free country" in recent reports.

Elman Nasirov, a member of the human rights committee of the Milli Majlis, argued that Azerbaijan is on a democratic development path. He highlighted the widespread use of social media by Azerbaijani citizens, enabling them to freely express their thoughts, even if it means sometimes dishonoring or disrespecting others without facing consequences. Nasirov told Turan that Azerbaijan is moving step by step along its democratic path, significant achievements and even more ambitious goals are ahead of it.

Nasirov emphasized that democracy is an ongoing process without a definitive endpoint, and no country can claim to have reached the pinnacle of democracy. He argued against comparing Azerbaijan, a 32-year-old nation, with countries that have had established democratic institutions for a century.

On the contrary, Nasirov pointed out that countries proclaiming themselves as champions of human rights have grossly violated those rights. He cited examples of police using rubber bullets, horses, and dogs against protesters in France and other European countries, as well as the atrocities committed by the police against black citizens in the United States, as captured on footage.

Bashir Suleymanli, head of the Institute of Civil Rights, admitted in an interview with RadioAzadlig that, despite official claims, Azerbaijan faces human rights challenges concerning both legislation and its implementation. He highlighted restrictions on freedom of assembly and association, which have been in place for nine years. Suleymanli pointed to restrictive laws concerning the media and political parties as further evidence of human rights problems.

According to human rights defender Rufat Safarov, the existing system in Azerbaijan has turned its citizens into subjects, offering a more critical assessment of the human rights situation in the country.

In summary, while Azerbaijani officials maintain their commitment to human rights, critics argue that the country still grapples with significant human rights issues. The restrictions on freedoms of assembly, association, and the media, as well as the perception of citizens as subjects, contribute to ongoing concerns about human rights in Azerbaijan.