President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a message to the participants of the 67th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Judges (IAJ), which is being held in Baku.
In his address, the head of state welcomed delegates and emphasized the importance of the event for advancing justice and ensuring judicial independence worldwide.
“The International Association of Judges, which unites national judicial associations from nearly 100 countries, has become an important institution – initiating major efforts to protect judicial independence, strengthen the rule of law, and improve the quality and efficiency of justice,” President Aliyev said. “It now serves as a key platform for international dialogue and cooperation aimed at developing judicial systems – one of the main pillars of the rule of law.”
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The President noted that Azerbaijan’s hosting of the IAJ annual meeting demonstrates the global recognition of the country’s judicial and legal system and reflects international confidence in its ongoing reforms.
“Holding this prestigious event in Azerbaijan this year carries special symbolic meaning,” the President stated. “The year 2025 has been declared the ‘Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty’. Based on the principles enshrined in the Constitution adopted 30 years ago under the leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan established an independent three-tier judicial system, strengthened separation of powers, and made human rights and the rule of law key pillars of state governance.”
Aliyev underscored that building a modern legal state remains a strategic priority of Azerbaijan’s national policy.
“Comprehensive measures are being taken to enhance the judiciary’s role as a guarantor of human rights. Consistent reforms have improved efficiency, expanded citizens’ access to justice, and reinforced judicial independence,” he said.
The President added that the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence has brought greater transparency and flexibility to court administration, improving public trust and accessibility.
Aliyev also highlighted that global digital transformation, socio-economic changes, and technological progress require constant adaptation from judicial systems.
“Annual meetings of the International Association of Judges provide a valuable platform for exchanging experience and defining future directions for legal and judicial systems in response to modern challenges,” he noted.
President Aliyev expressed confidence that the discussions and recommendations of the Baku meeting will make a meaningful contribution to strengthening judicial independence, improving the quality of justice, and promoting human rights worldwide.
“Once again, I warmly welcome all participants to Baku and wish success to the 67th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Judges,” the President concluded.
