Statement at the Third Committee of the eightieth session of the

 United Nations General Assembly

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief

Delivered by Mr. Shahriyar Hajiyev, First Secretary

24 October 2025

Madam Chair,

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report and briefing.

Ensuring freedom of religion or belief as a fundamental human right is of utmost importance for achieving stable and prosperous societies. Rooted in the dignity and equality inherent in all human beings, the effective realisation of this right serves as the foundation for mutual understanding, tolerance, and respect.

Regrettably, acts of harassment, intimidation, violence, and incitement based on religion or belief have risen sharply across the world, reaching alarming levels, as warned by the Human Rights Council’s Special Procedures. These dangerous trends are manifested in various forms, including through the use of media.

Madam Chair,

As a multicultural and multi-confessional society, Azerbaijan spares no effort to preserve and further develop these characteristics. The Constitution and the Law on Freedom of Conscience provide guarantees for the protection of freedom of religion or belief. The values of tolerance, mutual respect, and friendship contribute to the successful development of our country. Situated at the crossroads of different cultures and civilisations for centuries, Azerbaijan has consistently promoted intercultural dialogue at the global level.

Notably, the “Baku Process,” launched in 2008, serves as a solid platform for raising awareness and exchanging best practices on issues related to intercultural dialogue among various stakeholders. This platform is internationally recognised as a leading initiative in promoting intercultural dialogue. The UN General Assembly, in its resolutions on “Promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace”, acknowledged its importance as a pivotal global mechanism for advancing intercultural dialogue, and UNESCO’s Executive Board has also strongly supported it, urging global participation therein.

The Sixth World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, held in 2024 in Azerbaijan as part of the Baku Process, aimed to explore the critical intersections between dialogue facilitation, cooperative frameworks, leadership effectiveness, and the complex dynamics of interconnectedness.

Madam Chair,

We would like to emphasise that manifestations of intolerance and the persistence of discrimination based on religion or belief are rising concerns occurring in many parts of the world, which necessitate enhanced cooperation and effective action by the international community.

Thank you.