Azerbaijani first vice-speaker meets chief of PACE committee for gender equality

Asgarov highlighted what the Azerbaijani government has been doing to ensure gender equality. He said the principle of equal rights for men and women is enshrined in the country`s constitution.

“Parliament has ratified a number of international conventions and adopted laws on gender equality. Rights of women are not limited by any of these laws. On the contrary, according to some articles of Azerbaijan`s Criminal Code women are inflicted light penalty.”

Asgarov stated that Azerbaijan was among first countries to grant women the right to vote and be elected early last century.

“Azerbaijan is a model country on gender equality. The number of women in public administration is normal. And half of the total number of teachers at secondary schools and higher educational institutions is women.”

The vise-speaker also talked about Azeri women IDPs and refugees, whose rights were violated in an aftermath of Armenia`s aggression. He condemned European human rights activists' “indifference” towards violation of the Azeri women refugees and IDPs' rights.

Bota praised Azerbaijan`s all-round development, saying the country`s economic progress contributes to democratizing the society and strengthening the protection of human rights and fundamental freedom.

Following the meeting, Asgarov and MP Ganira Pashayeva responded to questions from delegates participating in the meeting.


/AzerTAc/