The OSCE Human Dimension Conference (HDIM 2025) continues in Warsaw, Poland. The major event, which began on October 6 and will run until October 17, has gathered diplomats, human rights defenders, journalists, and representatives of international organizations from all 57 OSCE member states. The conference focuses on human rights, fundamental freedoms, security, international justice, and peace.
This year’s sessions focus on the peace process in the South Caucasus, the war in Ukraine, and a joint stance against violations of international law.
During the first plenary session on October 7, the Director of the Azerbaijan Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, human rights defender Ahmad Shahidov, delivered a speech that drew attention from the international audience.
In his address, Shahidov emphasized that the peace process in the South Caucasus has entered a new stage. He highlighted the August 8 White House meeting mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, calling it a turning point for the region: “This meeting was not merely symbolic — it was historic. President Trump demonstrated that America’s power can be used not only on the battlefield but also at the negotiation table — for peace and stability.”
The Azerbaijani human rights defender also responded firmly to the biased and revanchist remarks made by an Armenian representative who spoke earlier: “Such provocative statements do not serve the cause of peace. Today, peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia are progressing successfully. It is unacceptable to poison this process with hatred and misinformation.”
Ahmad Shahidov also addressed the ongoing trial in Baku of Armenian military personnel responsible for war crimes:
“These individuals are not political prisoners, but war criminals. They ordered missile strikes on civilian areas in Ganja, Barda, and Mingachevir during the 2020 war, killing innocent people. Justice must be served, because peace cannot be built on impunity.”
He further drew attention to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and its impact on European security:
“The war in Ukraine is not just an attack on one nation’s sovereignty — it’s a blow to Europe’s entire security system. The international community must prioritize human life over political interests.”
Ahmad Shahidov concluded his speech with a call for peace and justice: “Peace is not just a word — it is a responsibility. It takes courage to stop aggression, to tell the truth, and to stand for justice. Azerbaijan believes that lasting peace can only be built on mutual respect and international law.”
The OSCE Warsaw Conference will continue until October 17, with a final declaration expected at its conclusion.
