Azerbaijan Human Rights Defender Makes Unannounced Visit to Psychiatric Dispensary

The Human Rights Defender of Azerbaijan, Gegham Stepanyan, along with members of the defender's staff, made an unannounced visit to a psychiatric dispensary on July 7 to assess the state of protection of the rights of individuals held there.

During the tour, the Defender reviewed the conditions of detention of individuals housed at the institution, their treatment and care, and various issues related to the protection of their rights. He paid particular attention to the treatment of individuals with mental disorders, the procedures for their admission and maintenance, and the realization of rights to communicate with the outside world and other rights.

The Defender emphasized the necessity for special attention and care from the state to adequately protect the rights of individuals with mental disorders. Upon inspecting the building conditions, the Defender expressed concern about the unfortunate state of the facility, which has worsened due to damages sustained during the autumn war of 2020.

The Defender recorded that the Government must make fundamental improvements to the conditions of the psychiatric dispensary as soon as possible. As a result of the visit, the Defender noted that the area of protecting the rights of individuals with mental health issues requires deep and comprehensive professional study, especially in the context of recent events.