Local authorities’ role in promotion of human rights and democracy stressed in EU Foreign Minister’s meeting in Brussels
The meeting of EU Foreign Ministers was held in Brussels on July 22.
During the meeting, the Foreign Ministers came to the conclusion that effective local governance contributes significantly to deepening democracy and citizen's empowerment.
The Foreign Ministers noted that local authorities are important actors for change in reducing poverty and in promoting human rights and democracy, good governance and sustainable development in partner countries.
During the meeting in Brussels, the Foreign Ministers of the EU countries concluded that, working through local authorities improves opportunities to increase participation of citizens in decision making.
"Local authorities are a key to the enhancement of public sector accountability to citizens, as well as promoting justice and the core principles of equality including the rights of women and girls, ensuring transparency and broad-based participation in the public sphere."
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov is also participating in the meeting.