Azerbaijan is aiming to limit discussions of its human rights issues during COP29, as indicated by leaked details of a hosting agreement giving authorities the power to suppress criticism. The agreement creates uncertainty for participants, potentially discouraging open dialogue about Azerbaijan’s policies. Human Rights Watch advocates for greater transparency, while some delegates call for unencumbered discussion of human rights issues during the conference.
Azerbaijan is reportedly seeking to limit discussions related to its human rights record during the upcoming COP29 climate conference, set to be held from November 11 to 22 in Baku. According to a leaked version of the hosting agreement between Azerbaijan and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), there are provisions that could enable the Azerbaijani government to suppress any criticism regarding its internal policies. The hosting agreement, which was finalized in August, includes a clause that grants participants immunity for actions taken in their official capacity during the conference. However, it also stipulates that participants must adhere to Azerbaijani laws and may not interfere in the country’s internal affairs, without defining what constitutes “interference.” This ambiguity could potentially discourage participants from openly discussing human rights issues, as they may fear legal repercussions. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has criticized the UNFCCC for its handling of the agreement and urged that greater transparency be applied to the hosting agreements, advocating for the publication of such documents to enable informed participation. Frank Schwabe, a prominent member of the German delegation, highlighted the importance of raising critical issues regarding Azerbaijan’s human rights practices during COP29, stating that participants should not shy away from such discussions out of fear. Additionally, reports suggest that the anticipated absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin may alleviate tensions for the Azerbaijani government regarding potential controversies during the conference, which was a concern voiced by various stakeholders, including Ukraine’s ambassador to the EU.
The COP29 U.N. climate conference is set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, representing a vital global forum focused on environmental issues. However, the hosting country’s human rights record has come under scrutiny. Recent observations have noted Azerbaijan’s strict control over dissent and freedom of expression, raising concerns over how these domestic policies might infringe upon rights at an international conference meant to address climate change. Human Rights Watch emphasized the need for a rights-respecting environment for all participants and called for transparency in the agreements governing such conferences.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan’s attempt to restrict discussions surrounding its human rights violations at COP29 poses significant challenges for participants. The leaked hosting agreement reveals potential avenues for suppression of criticism, creating a climate of uncertainty about the legal consequences of raising such issues. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch underscore the necessity for transparency and adherence to human rights standards within hosting agreements to ensure that the conference can function as an open and inclusive platform.
Original Source: eurasianet.org
