BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 7.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) provides a vital platform for
exchanging experiences, mutual learning, and strengthening the role
of parliaments in building institutions that are more open,
inclusive, and trusted, Azerbaijani Parliament Speaker Sahiba
Gafarova said in her address to the 153rd Assembly of the IPU in
Arusha, during her working visit to Tanzania.
This was reported by the Press and Public Relations Department
of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament).
The speaker noted that public hearings and public discussions
are crucial mechanisms for ensuring citizen participation.
Representatives of state institutions, experts, civil society
organizations, and members of the public can take part in
discussions regarding draft laws and issues of public interest.
These mechanisms enable the parliament to hear diverse professional
and public opinions and to strengthen its engagement with
society.
Speaking during the general debate on the topic "Strengthening
good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity,
trust, and opportunities for all," Gafarova said that effective
governance depends not only on efficient institutions but also on
whether people trust those institutions, can participate in
decision-making, and have fair opportunities to contribute to
society.
The speaker noted that digitalization makes state institutions
more accessible and transparent, thereby supporting this process by
creating new avenues for communication and participation. She also
emphasized that trust is further strengthened when institutions are
open, citizens' voices are heard, and people see that their
participation can make a difference.
Highlighting the vital role of parliaments in this process,
Gafarova remarked that, as institutions representing the people,
parliaments bridge the gap between public expectations and state
decision-making. Through legislation, oversight, and dialogue with
society, they help make governance more transparent, accountable,
and inclusive.
Highlighting the consistent steps taken in Azerbaijan to improve
public administration, expand digital solutions, enhance the
accessibility of public services, and create broader opportunities
for citizen participation, the speaker noted that the Azerbaijani
parliament contributes to these efforts.
According to her, modern technologies in this field facilitate
greater interaction with citizens and ensure wider access to
information regarding parliamentary activities. At the same time,
Azerbaijan has established legal and institutional mechanisms that
enable citizens and civil society to participate directly in the
legislative process. She cited the right of legislative initiative
as a significant example of this.
Gafarova also briefed on other digital tools utilized by the
Azerbaijani parliament. Attention was also drawn to the work
undertaken by the parliament to ensure inclusivity. In this regard,
information was provided on the special attention the Azerbaijani
parliament pays to the participation and rights of women, youth,
and persons with disabilities, as well as the development of
relevant legislation in this area.
Concluding her remarks, the speaker said that the IPU offers a
vital platform for exchanging experiences, mutual learning, and
strengthening the role of parliaments in establishing institutions
that are more open, inclusive, and trusted. She pointed out that by
enhancing participation and ensuring every voice is heard, it is
possible to empower communities and contribute to the creation of
more resilient, peaceful, and sustainable societies.
