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Articles 2–7 of the Convention. Seafarers’ identity documents. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s first report on the application of the Convention, in particular the adoption of the Government’s Seafarers’ Identity Document Regulations, approved by Act No. 541-IIIQ of 1 February 2008, which implements the provisions of the Convention, and establishes the interdepartmental automated “input–output and registration” data search system. The Regulations provide for a seafarer’s identity document (SID) containing, among other particulars, biometric data and a digital photograph in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Document 9303, thus conforming to the model SID set out in Annex I of the Convention. The Regulations also specify the SID format, size, and the material to be used. The SID is issued within 15 days from receipt of the application for an initial period of five years, which may be extended up to a maximum of ten years. Entries in the SID are shown in the official language of Azerbaijan and in English and details of the document are stored in the interdepartmental automated
“input–output and registration” data search system.

The Committee understands, however, that notwithstanding the adoption of implementing legislation, the Government has not yet started the issuance of SIDs and that general technical guidance is still needed in order to ensure compliance, for instance, with regard to data protection and privacy standards by the focal point during the verification and authentification process.

The Committee is fully cognizant of the fact that ratifying countries may need a few years to put in place the facilities and systems necessary for the issuance of seafarers’ identity documents, especially in view of the highly technical character of certain requirements and recommended procedures. The Committee further understands that, at the initial stage, it may only be able to make a preliminary assessment of the extent to which Members ratifying the Convention have established the necessary facilities and systems.

The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate: (i) whether the interdepartmental automated “input–output and registration” data search system is currently in operation; (ii) whether any independent evaluation of the administration of the system has already been carried out or planned; and (iii) describe any additional measures or procedures considered for the development of the SID issuance system. In addition, it requests the Government to provide a specimen (not a photocopy) seafarer’s identity document.