The EU regularly discusses the state of democracy, rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms in Azerbaijan in its meetings with the Azerbaijani authorities. Most recently, during the Cooperation Council meeting that took place in Brussels on 9 February 2018, the High Representative/ Vice-President underlined the importance of strengthening the rule of law, fundamental rights and democratic institutions as well as the importance of citizen’s access to basic legal assistance and the right of defence.

The EU reaffirmed its readiness to continue its support for the further development of democratic institutions in Azerbaijan[1].

Commission services, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan are following this issue very closely. The EEAS has met in Brussels representatives of Azerbaijani law practitioners and the EU Delegation is in regular contact with affected lawyers and closely follows the disciplinary cases against them at the Bar association.

In addition, the EU Delegation arranged on 18 December 2017 a joint meeting with Member States representatives and the newly elected Head of the Bar association and continues to follow up and to assess the progress of new admissions to the Bar association.

• [1] http://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/international-ministerial-meetings/2018/02/09/