Emin Huseynov's Address at the 56th Human Rights Session: Interactive dialogue on Climate Change

During the 56th Human Rights Session of the Human Rights Council at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Emin Huseynov presented a statement on the part of Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety during the Interactive Dialogue on Climate Change, emphasizing the urgent need to uphold human rights in the context of climate change.

Huseynov highlighted the recent arrest of Anar Mammadli, a prominent human rights advocate and leader of Azerbaijan’s largest independent election monitoring group.

This detention has severely impacted the COP29 Climate of Justice Initiative, which aimed to foster positive policy changes at the upcoming conference in Azerbaijan.

Huseynov emphasized that COP29 must adhere to the UNFCCC Subsidiary Body for Implementation’s principle that all related events should take place in settings where participants are safeguarded from violations and abuses.

“We are deeply concerned about the increasing restrictions on civic space and the criminalization of climate activism,” Huseynov said. “The ongoing repression of civil society and media undermines the core principles of free expression and assembly.”

He urged the international community to pressure Azerbaijan to end its campaign of intimidation and ensure that COP29 is transparent and inclusive, effectively addressing both climate and human rights issues.

Full Video Available At: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=malhDrWsNaA&t=22s