OSCE cites shortfalls in Azeri courts despite improvements
BAKU – The OSCE Office in Baku has issued a report on the work of Azerbaijan’s courts in 2009, saying that while there are significant improvements achieved since the publication of its previous annual report, shortcomings have been identified.
The Trial Monitoring Report said the shortcomings concern "full compliance with the applicable domestic legislation and relevant fair trial standards". The report claimed that of particular concern is the number of cases where credible allegations of torture or inhuman or degrading treatment of accused and witnesses have been raised, but where the court did not ensure a proper investigation of these allegations.
"As a result, the courts continue to accept tainted evidence without adequately ruling on the accused’s and defence motions."
The OSCE Office said it stands ready to continue supporting the ongoing judicial and legislative reforms in Azerbaijan. Therefore, based on its findings, the Office suggested its recommendations on possible reforms in order to further improve the Azerbaijani justice sector.
The OSCE said that firstly, judges must adjudicate the cases independently and
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