DUSHANBE, 02.02.2021 (NIAT Khovar) – The Commissioner for Human Rights Umed Bobozoda met with the European Union representatives, including the head of the EU Delegation to Tajikistan Marilyn Josephson, German Ambassador Andreas Protmann, Deputy Head of the French Embassy Philippe Hidoux and the Political Adviser of the EU Delegation Nils Janson.

The meeting focused on the opportunities for further cooperation and assistance in expanding the activities of the ombudsman.

The meeting also focused on a number of important issues in the field of human rights, most of which relate to ensuring the observance and protection of human rights during the COVID-19 pandemic, protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, women and girls, as well as issues relating to Tajikistan’s accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the compliance of ombudsman’s activities with the Paris Principles, which deal with the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights.

Bobozoda spoke about the timely and effective initiatives of the government in the fight against the coronavirus, in particular, the creation of conditions for its0 treatment and prevention, information campaigns to raise public awareness, social assistance to the population, and its vulnerable groups.

During the meeting EU representatives praised Tajikistan’s efforts and contributions toward the implementation of its international obligations in the field of observance and protection of human rights, especially the rights and freedoms of persons with disabilities and noted that the signing of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by President Emomali Rahmon is important for the comprehensive progress and development of Tajikistan in ensuring and protecting human rights.

EU representatives also expressed their readiness to co-operate this year in all the areas of the ombudsman’s work in Tajikistan.

Following the meeting, the parties expressed their willingness to further strengthen cooperation.