Baku State University (BSU), in collaboration with the Center for Analysis of International Relations (CAIR), hosted an international conference titled “The Constitution as a Key Legal Foundation for Safeguarding the Independence, Sovereignty, and Territorial Integrity of Our State.” The event was held as part of the nationwide observance of the Year of Constitution and Sovereignty, marking the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of Azerbaijan and the 5th anniversary of victory in the Patriotic War.

Moderating the event, CAIR Senior Advisor Metin Mammadli emphasized the historical significance of 2024, noting that the dual anniversaries give deeper meaning to the "Year of Constitution and Sovereignty," making it not just symbolic, but historically profound.

In his speech, Farid Shafiev, Chairman of CAIR’s Board, stated:

“In an increasingly globalized world, pressures on national sovereignty and domestic affairs are intensifying. A strong legal framework, including constitutional reforms, serves as a vital safeguard. Our Constitution allows for timely adaptation to global challenges. The restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity in 2020 and full sovereignty in 2023 is not only a military-political achievement but also a constitutional and legal triumph, fully aligned with international law.”

BSU Vice-Rector Huseyn Mammadov highlighted the transformative role of the 1995 Constitution in state-building and civil society formation:

“Thanks to the leadership and vision of BSU graduate and national leader Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan's democratic foundations were reestablished and solidified. As we mark the 30th anniversary of our Constitution as a fully sovereign nation, it is crucial that our youth continue to uphold and defend our national values with scientific knowledge and civic responsibility.”

Chairman of the Constitutional Court Farhad Abdullayev underlined the Constitution’s foundational role in legal reform, the protection of human rights, and the advancement of public administration since its adoption on November 12, 1995.

First Deputy Minister of Finance Anar Kerimov spoke on the economic dimensions of constitutional law, noting:

“The Constitution is the cornerstone of every independent state. It not only shapes political and legal systems but also lays the groundwork for economic governance. Azerbaijan’s Constitution clearly defines the legal framework for the state’s financial operations.”

The conference also featured speeches from distinguished international guests, including Professor Yücel Oğurlu, Rector of Balıkesir University (Türkiye), and Latif Huseynov, Judge of the European Court of Human Rights, who shared perspectives on the constitutional principles underlying democratic governance.

Dean of the BSU Faculty of Law, Professor Zaur Aliyev, delivered a comprehensive presentation titled “The Constitution and Human Rights,” examining how constitutional principles ensure the protection of individual freedoms and legal security.