On July 8, the Institute of Law and Human Rights (public legal entity) held the presentation of the scientific and practical commentary on the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan ‘On Ensuring the Rights and Freedoms of Persons Confined in Places of Detention’.

In his opening address, Mr. Mahammad Guluzade, Chairman of the Board of the Institute, noted that promoting public awareness in the field of human rights and freedoms remains among the Institute’s foremost strategic priorities. As part of the efforts undertaken in this direction, the Institute has developed a practical guide providing comprehensive commentary on all 50 articles of the abovementioned Law. Mr. Guluzade emphasized that this publication is intended to facilitate the more profound understanding of the existing legal mechanisms for the protection of detainees’ rights and to contribute to the development of legal practices consistent with international human rights standards. He also provided detailed information on the Institute’s recent initiatives for both the legal community and the public at large, including the development of a virtual library, a database of legal scholars and publications, the PASS Platform, and other resources.

Subsequently, Colonel of Justice Vugar Abishov, Head of the Department for Strategic Planning and Monitoring of the Penitentiary Service under the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Azerbaijan, highlighted the Service’s unwavering commitment to protecting human rights, implementing international standards, and promoting legal education. He noted that enhancing the legal knowledge of penitentiary personnel, conducting regular training sessions, and ensuring access to legal literature constitute ongoing priorities. Colonel Abishov expressed his appreciation for the Institute’s focused efforts in this area, specifically commending the preparation and dissemination of this significant publication to the professional community.

Ms. Natavan Rustamova, Vice Chair of the Board of the Institute, presented an extensive overview of the Commentary, emphasizing that it is grounded in international legal instruments and judicial decisions. She also underlined the Commentary’s primary focus on respecting human rights within custodial facilities, as well as its compliance with applicable international standards.

Attendees participated in interactive and constructive discussions on the issues covered in the Commentary, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The 625-page Commentary, edited by Mr. Vafaddin Ibayev, Deputy Chair of the Board of the Institute, is anticipated to serve as a valuable resource for penitentiary system personnel, legal professionals, law enforcement officers, legal scholars, and law students.

The event was attended by members of the Milli Majlis (Parliament), representatives from various government agencies, legal scholars, and representatives from non-governmental organizations.