OSCE Senior Adviser calls for effective implementation of Azerbaijan's domestic violence law

BAKU, 14 October 2010 - This month's adoption of a law on prevention of domestic violence, marks an important step for Azerbaijan towards implementing its gender equality commitments, the OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, Jamila Seftaoui, told a news conference today, adding that good mechanisms must now be developed so that the law can be implemented effectively., 

The OSCE supported the drafting and adoption of the law. "A comprehensive approach to combating violence against women and an effective implementation of this law are essential to ensuring fundamental rights and security for women," Seftaoui said at the end of a four-day visit to the country.

In discussions with Azerbaijani senior officials from the Interior Ministry, the State Committee on Family, Women and Children Affairs, and the Economic Development Ministry, as well as with representatives of the international organizations and civil society, Seftaoui debated ways to advance women's rights and promote women's economic empowerment, as well as their protection from discrimination and all forms of violence in order to achieve gender equality in Azerbaijan.

"Gender equality is a fundamental human right and an essential element of the OSCE's comprehensive security mandate," Seftaoui said. "Viable mechanisms that help protect victims and prosecute aggressors are crucial parts of comprehensive frameworks to promote gender equality. Civil society initiatives are also essential for accelerating women's empowerment and gender equality on a community level."

Seftaoui emphasized that a family's privacy, culture, tradition or education level could never be a justification to tolerate or ignore violence against women.

"Violence against women not only affects individuals, but impedes a country's development in every sphere," she said.