Azerbaijan has secured a major international position after being elected to the United Nations Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (CMW). The election was held on June 24, 2025, during the 12th meeting of States Parties to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers, which took place in New York, USA.
The announcement was made by Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry, which confirmed that the country’s candidate received the highest number of votes in the first round. This achievement placed Azerbaijan ahead of candidates from six other countries, showcasing the strong confidence of the international community in Azerbaijan’s capabilities and commitment to protecting the rights of migrant workers.
The CMW is a respected UN human rights treaty body made up of 14 independent experts from various nations. These experts are responsible for monitoring how countries implement the International Convention on Migrant Workers’ Rights, which aims to protect migrant workers and their families regardless of their migration status. The Committee regularly reviews reports submitted by states and issues recommendations to ensure the rights of migrants are respected and upheld.
Azerbaijan will now serve a three-year term from 2026 to 2029, where its delegate will take part in reviewing the performance of member states and supporting efforts to improve migrant welfare and legal protections around the world. This election is seen as a significant diplomatic success for Azerbaijan and strengthens its presence in global human rights discussions.
In addition to its newly secured seat in the CMW, Azerbaijan is already an active participant in several other important UN treaty bodies. These include its membership in the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR). Holding these multiple positions highlights Azerbaijan’s growing role in global governance, particularly in promoting social justice, gender equality, and workers’ rights.
Officials from the Azerbaijani government have expressed pride in the country’s election, stating that it reflects the trust the international community has in Azerbaijan’s commitment to migrant protection, legal reform, and cooperation with international institutions. They noted that Azerbaijan will use this opportunity to contribute actively to shaping policies that ensure migrants across the globe are treated fairly and humanely.
Migrant rights are a pressing issue worldwide, with millions of people crossing borders each year in search of better work, safety, and life opportunities. The UN Convention on the Protection of Migrant Workers, adopted in 1990, aims to guarantee basic rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to justice, for migrants and their families. By joining the CMW, Azerbaijan strengthens its voice in international efforts to address migration challenges, promote non-discrimination, and support the human dignity of all workers.
This new role is expected to open up greater opportunities for Azerbaijan to lead discussions, share its national experiences, and collaborate with other countries on best practices in managing migration and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable communities. It also reflects the country’s growing ambition to play a meaningful role in global policymaking and human rights diplomacy.