US concerned over controversial NGO bill
Baku, June 17
AssA-Irada
US Ambassador in Baku Anne Derse has expressed concern over anticipated amendments and addenda to the law on non-governmental organizations in Azerbaijan, following similar statements by the OSCE and the Council of Europe.
In a statement, Derse said she was closely following the measures being taken by the Milli Majlis (parliament) in this regard. “We share the concern repeatedly voiced over this by the civil society in Azerbaijan and our international partners in the country.”
She emphasized that, if adopted in their current shape, the proposed changes will defy international standards.
“The new rules will apply additional restrictions on freedom of speech and association and pose obstacles for the development of civil society in Azerbaijan,” the statement said.
Derse noted that, prior to adopting the amendments, proposals of civil society representatives and consultations with the Council of Europe Venice Commission should be taken into consideration. She also called for holding open and broad discussions on the issue.
The amendments, which envision more financial accountability for local NGOs, will be discussed in parliament on Friday.
Over 100 Azeri NGOs protesting at proposed changes to law
Head of OSCE Office issues statement about proposed amendments to the Azerbaijani Law on NGOs
CE concerned over proposed changes to Azeri NGO law
PACE urges Azeri parliament to consult on NGO law
US concerned over controversial NGO bill
Azerbaijan: Groups to protest at proposed changes to NGO law
Azeri official calls to revise NGO law changes
Foreign firms to be obliged to hire Azeris as deputy head
Baku conference of ombudspersons adopts declaration
Azeri clerics disapprove of proposed changes to religion law
Foreign firms to be obliged to hire Azeris as deputy head
Media NGO forced to leave its office in Azeri capital - agency
| 
