The spring session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, held in Strasbourg, concluded on April 24, bringing together European lawmakers to discuss a wide range of pressing international issues. Throughout the week, debates focused on the situation in the Middle East, rising tensions around Iran, Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, as well as the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. Topics such as international terrorism, human rights, democratic processes, and global security challenges were also high on the agenda.
Commenting on the outcomes of the session, Ahmad Shahidov noted that discussions in Strasbourg once again revealed growing concerns about the weakening of international law and the increasing dominance of power politics. He emphasized that many European parliamentarians openly acknowledged this trend, warning that it poses a serious threat not only to Europe but to the global order. According to him, statements made at such platforms should not remain symbolic, but must be translated into concrete political action.
Ahmad Shahidov also addressed the issue of Azerbaijan’s absence from PACE sessions in recent years, expressing regret over the ongoing situation. He stated that while some of the demands directed at Azerbaijan are unfair and contradict international law, there are also areas, particularly related to human rights and democratic standards, where progress is needed. Shahidov underlined that constructive dialogue and mutual engagement could pave the way for restoring Azerbaijan’s participation in the Assembly.
