On Nov. 22 the Milli Majlis (parliament) of Azerbaijan adopted a draft law 'On public participation' at its third reading. The law's aim is to create guarantees for Azerbaijani citizens' participation in the governing of the state in the form of public participation.

The new law which consists of four chapters and 20 articles secures organisational and legal forms of public participation which include the public council, debate and hearing, the study of public opinion and public examination.

The remarks and suggestions of MPs were taken into account after the discussion of the draft law in parliament at its second reading, Azay Guliyev, Chairman of the Council of State Support to NGOs under the auspices of Azerbaijani president said.

According to Guliyev, in particular the paragraph allowing a person to participate in only one public council was excluded from the draft law. In addition, changes of an editorial nature were made to the draft law. The document said that the legislation can also determine other organisational and legal forms of public participation.

The Public Council is a consultative structure created by the executive authorities and local self-government bodies whose term of office is three years. Any citizen over 18 and eligible to vote can become a member of the board.

The Public Council is elected by the Institute of Civil Society in accordance with provisions approved by the relevant executive authority given the requirements set out by law. The members are not paid any salary, fee, compensation and other payments for work at the council.