“The holding of such a prestigious international platform as WUF13 in our country is of great importance in terms of jointly discussing issues of urban planning, sustainable development, social inclusivity and human rights, Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan Sabina Aliyeva during her speech at the session titled “Inclusive cities and independent living for persons with disabilities” held within the framework of WUF13, APA reports.
She stated that in the modern era, the development of cities is measured not only by architectural solutions, infrastructure and transport opportunities, but first of all by the real conditions created for people’s daily lives:
“The true indicator of a city’s development is the extent to which it is an accessible, safe, comfortable and dignified living space for every person. In this regard, the topic of today’s event is of particular relevance. The rights of persons with disabilities are among the key human rights issues that form part of the essence of urban planning policy. The creation of an inclusive urban environment is an important condition for equal opportunities, social justice and respect for human dignity.
Accessibility is not limited only to ramps, elevators and special signs. This concept expresses a comprehensive approach that enables a person to independently organize their daily life. This means ensuring the unhindered and effective participation of a person on an equal basis with others in education, employment, healthcare, transport, culture, public services and community life. Thus, the equal and effective participation of persons with disabilities in community life is only possible through the creation of an accessible environment.”
The Ombudsman also noted that many of the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities are more related to the improper design of the environment:
“Crossings that do not meet standards, inaccessible public transport, unadapted sanitary facilities, insufficient audio and visual information, and existing barriers in digital services limit people’s opportunities to live independently and participate equally in society. For the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, this area is one of the important priorities both legally and institutionally. In a number of central areas of Baku city, the accessibility of public spaces, crossings, transport and information infrastructure for persons with disabilities has been monitored. Special importance was attached to cooperation with civil society during the monitoring process. As a result of the monitoring, a report reflecting relevant proposals and recommendations aimed at ensuring the rights of persons with disabilities more effectively was prepared and submitted to the relevant state bodies. This approach is extremely important. Because persons with disabilities and the organizations representing them should act as direct partners participating in the processes of decision-making, design, monitoring and evaluation. The most accurate and sustainable solutions are formed when the knowledge and experience of people who face these barriers in daily life are taken into account,” she noted.
