Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2015-06-10-Speech-3-748-000"
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"en.20150610.36.3-748-000"2
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"Mr President, as we sit here debating Azerbaijan’s human rights record, stating that they should meet similar standards to those set in western EU Member States, it is easy to forget that they provide a judge who sits at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) just across the river from us here in Strasbourg. In fact, he has done so for the last 12 years and, so far as I am aware, no one has called for his removal nor had any reason to do so.
Although I do not regard ECHR membership as a defining characteristic in identifying adherence to human rights, would it not be hypocritical of the European Union to, on the one hand, accept into EU law judgments of the ECHR that have been handed down by Azerbaijan’s representative whilst, on the other, refusing to acknowledge that Azerbaijan seeks to fulfil its obligations towards the international community?
I do understand the serious concerns being raised in this Chamber during this debate. However, sporting events such as the forthcoming Baku Games in Azerbaijan, as pointed out by the Council, are a great way to bring countries closer together. Indeed, what better and more peaceful way to continue to encourage Azerbaijan in its engagement with the rest of the world? Azerbaijan, to my mind, should be commended for the manner in which its Muslim, Jewish and Christian citizens have built a largely peaceful society. There are few places in that region with such a record. By some standards, one could argue that Azerbaijan is a success on this issue alone.
Sport is a means by which to communicate with those with whom we do not share a language. I well remember, as a youngster, sporting tournaments which opened my mind to the names and flags of other countries, helping me to expand my knowledge of our world and the people in it. Why deny today’s youngsters the opportunity to learn about Baku and Azerbaijan?"@en1
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