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 The human rights defenders need solidarity from all parts of Europe when repressed by their governments, Council of Europe Commissioner Thomas Hammarberg has made his remarks on the importance of work of human rights defenders.

According to CE Commissioner a sad example has been reported from Azerbaijan, when in mid-August a building in Baku where several human rights organizations were located has been demolished, including the Office of the Institute for peace and Democracy. Despite the court decision temporarily prohibiting the destruction of the building, they did it.

Mr. Hammarberg says as the house was torn down without any prior notification the persons who worked there were unable to salvage any paper, computers or other working materials. It’s believed that the action was directed towards Leyla Yunus, the head of the organization, who has been vocal in denouncing corruption and forced evictions in Azerbaijan.

The comment released by Hammarberg’s office says it is important that the protection of the safety of human rights defenders be reaffirmed as a crucial standard. Whenever this universally agreed undertaking is abrogated in one state, government in other countries – including Council of Europe member states – must react.