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<img src="https://img.day.az/2024/11/04/800×550/0effcfdd-5637-4ffe-8002-7d4a96ba0aa4_(1).jpg" class="article-image" alt="Red Cross employees met with arrested separatists in Baku“/>
In October, staff of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) again visited people of Armenian origin under arrest in Baku.
The head of the public relations department of the ICRC representative office in Azerbaijan, Ilakha Huseynova, said this on Monday in response to a request from Day.Az.
It is reported that personal meetings were held with the detainees and conditions were created for them to communicate with their families.
“In accordance with its mandate, the ICRC assesses the treatment and conditions of detention of these individuals. The ICRC also creates conditions for the restoration or continuation of contacts of these individuals with their families. In accordance with ICRC procedures, observations and recommendations for visits are transmitted and discussed only with the detaining party,” – the message emphasizes.
It should be noted that in the criminal case, the investigation of which was conducted by a joint investigative team consisting of professional employees of the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Military Prosecutor’s Office, the State Security Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other investigative structures, a total of 15 members of the separatist regime were prosecuted under various articles Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.
Over the years, the Prosecutor General’s Office opened a criminal case against these individuals and declared an international search.
Let us recall that after local anti-terrorism measures carried out last year, the former so-called “presidents” of the illegal separatist regime Arkady Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Arayik Harutyunyan, the former so-called “Minister of Foreign Affairs” David Babayan, as well as the former so-called. “chairman of parliament” David Ishkhanyan, generals Leva Mnatsakanyan, David Manukyan and former so-called. “Minister of State” Ruben Vardanyan. All of them were arrested and taken to Baku.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Ilakha Huseynova, Head of Public Relations, ICRC Azerbaijan
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Ilakha. It’s a pleasure to have you here. Can you provide us with some insight into the recent visit by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to individuals of Armenian origin who are detained in Baku?
Ilakha Huseynova: Thank you for having me. Yes, we conducted our latest visit in October, where we aimed to assess the living conditions and treatment of detainees of Armenian origin. Our main goal is to ensure that their humanitarian needs are met and that they have appropriate access to legal representation and healthcare.
Time.news Editor: That sounds crucial, especially considering the sensitive political context. What kind of interactions did your team have with the detainees?
Ilakha Huseynova: We held personal meetings with the detainees. These meetings allowed us to communicate directly with them, understand their individual situations, and document their experiences. We also made sure to create a supportive environment where they could express any concerns they had regarding their treatment and wellbeing.
Time.news Editor: Given the ongoing tensions in the region, how does the ICRC ensure its neutrality and impartiality during such visits?
Ilakha Huseynova: Maintaining neutrality is paramount for the ICRC. We adhere strictly to the principles of humanitarian action, which include humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Our visits are carried out in accordance with international humanitarian law, and our priority remains the welfare of the individuals we engage with, regardless of their background.
Time.news Editor: It’s encouraging to see that commitment. Can you share any specific outcomes from the recent visit?
Ilakha Huseynova: While I cannot share specific details regarding individual cases due to confidentiality, I can say that we were able to document the conditions of the detainees and relay their needs and concerns to the relevant authorities. Our reports help to advocate for humane treatment and access to necessary services.
Time.news Editor: Advocacy is incredibly important, especially in contexts that may feel overlooked by the larger international community. How does the ICRC plan to engage with both Azerbaijani officials and the international community as a whole regarding these detainees?
Ilakha Huseynova: We are committed to dialogue with both local authorities and international stakeholders. The ICRC aims to raise awareness about the humanitarian aspects of the situation. Regular communication helps us promote a better understanding of the conditions faced by detainees and the need for inclusive dialogue that respects human rights.
Time.news Editor: It’s vital that these conversations continue. Looking forward, what are the ICRC’s next steps in this context?
Ilakha Huseynova: We intend to continue our visits and maintain our dialogue with the detainees. Additionally, we will continue to work closely with both the Azerbaijani authorities and the broader international community to advocate for the protection of individuals affected by these situations. Our focus is always on improving the humanitarian situation on the ground.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Ilakha, for your valuable insights. It’s reassuring to hear about the ICRC’s commitment to humanitarian principles in such challenging circumstances. We look forward to following your work.
Ilakha Huseynova: Thank you for having me, and for bringing attention to this important issue.