OSCE Office in Baku organizes expert discussion of Azerbaijani gender equality law

BAKU, 23 May 2006 - Providing a platform for gender experts and representatives of civil society to present their comments and views on Azerbaijan's first gender law was the aim of a meeting held today by the OSCE Office in Baku.

The event, co-organized with the American Bar Association/Central European and Eurasian Law Initiative, brought together representatives of legislative and executive bodies, as well as lawyers and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations.

"Equal opportunities and equal rights are essential in order for women to fully participate in all spheres of life," said Ambassador Maurizio Pavesi, Head of the OSCE Office.

"This public discussion is necessary a first step not only towards more transparency in legislative actions and co-operation between the Parliament and the public sector, but also in creating an understanding and a demand for equal rights, equal opportunities and non-discrimination."

Recommendations that resulted from the discussion will be forwarded to members of Parliament prior to the second reading of the Law on Gender Equality, scheduled for 25 May.