October 29, 2003 - 17:54 AMT
UN EXPERTS CONCERNED OVER SITUATION IN AZERBAIJAN
A group of independent experts of the UN Human Rights Commission has expressed "deep concern" over the situation in Azerbaijan. The human rights proponents are especially concerned over the reports on repression against participants of latest anti-governmental demonstrations held in Baku after the presidential election held October 15. In their statement commission special reporters Ambey Ligabo, Teo van Boven, Asma Jahanghir and Hina Jilani spread at the UN headquarters indicated that the excessive use of force by security bodies when dispersing manifestations resulted in death of at least one person. According to the information of experts, hundreds of demonstrators were arrested and detained, and "opposition leaders and journalists became special targets." The human rights advocates called the Azeri leadership to observe international human rights commitments, hold an open and independent investigation of the numerous reports of rude application of force against demonstrators and bring those guilty to account, "Novosti" Russian agency reports.