Azernews.Az

BAKU – Norwegian State Secretary Espen Barth Eide met a leading Azerbaijani human rights defender on Monday, the Norwegian embassy in Baku said on its website.

Leyla Yunus, director of the NGO Institute for Peace and Democracy, told Barth Eide about the demolition on August 11 of a building where the Institute and two other NGOs had their offices.

The demolition took place as part of a wider urban development project. Yunus gave an account of her efforts to ensure that property owners’ rights are safeguarded. The demolition of her own house was carried out without warning, while Yunus was abroad, and despite a court injunction of May 24 banning demolition of the building pending a final court decision.

Barth Eide expressed his support for the important work carried out by the Institute for Peace and Democracy and Yunus to promote democracy and respect for human rights in Azerbaijan.

"Norway’s aim is to be a partner for Azerbaijan in its efforts to promote fundamental values and norms," Barth Eide said. "We therefore expect Azerbaijan to act in accordance with the international obligations our countries have undertaken. In a state governed by the rule of law, fundamental rights and rules must be respected, including property rights. Urban development can affect private property in most countries, but it is crucial that due legal process be observed."

Barth Eide also met Yunus during his visit to Baku in June.