Azerbaijani diplomat attends UN debate on children and armed conflict

Deputy permanent representative of Azerbaijan to the United Nations (UN) Tofig Musayev attended the Security Council`s debate on children and armed conflict. Speaking during the debate, Musayev noted Azerbaijan continues to support the activities of existing UN mechanisms and other relevant international actors towards ensuring more effective protection for the children`s rights and improving the situation of children affected by armed conflict.

“Azerbaijan`s determination with regard to the issue under consideration is obvious and stems from our keen interest to contribute to the achievement of sustainable peace and development and from our practical experience in addressing the impact of armed conflict on civilians, including children,” he added.

The diplomat said as a result of the war unleashed against Azerbaijan and the military occupation of country`s territories “our country continues to suffer from having one of the highest number of refugees and displaced persons in the world, large numbers of whom are children”. He stressed the most serious crimes had been committed against civilians, including children, during the conflict. “In its relevant resolutions adopted in 1993 in response to the occupation of Azerbaijani territories, the Security Council referred specifically to violations of international humanitarian law, including the forced displacement of large numbers of civilians in Azerbaijan,” the diplomat noted.

Musayev added that in spite of a formal ceasefire, deliberate attacks by the occupier against Azerbaijani civilians and civilian objects, in contravention of international law, have become more frequent and violent over recent years, resulting in the killing and maiming of many inhabitants residing near the frontline, including children. The diplomat noted,“important steps have been taken to achieve accountability for grave child rights violations, but still serious challenges remain”.

“More resolute and targeted measures are required to protect children in situations of armed conflict and to end impunity for genocide, crimes against humanity and other egregious crimes perpetrated against children” he added.

Musayev also noted that another challenging issue requiring urgent action is that of children taken hostage and reported missing in connection with armed conflict. The diplomat said that Azerbaijan would continue to contribute to the solutions to such problems.


/AzerTAc/