UNICEF representative makes statement regarding schoolgirl's suicide

"The tragic story of 14-year old Elina, which captured the emotions of so many people over the weekend, reminds us that we all – including my own organization – have to do more to improve the protection and support available to vulnerable children," UNICEF representative Edward Carwardine said on his social network account.

"While we should not speculate on the underlying causes of this particular tragedy, there are steps we can take to protect any child who may be at risk.

"That includes increasing investment in well-trained child counselors, child psychologists and social workers – and, equally importantly, strengthening the referral and case management systems that enable children and families at risk to be connected with the professional services and support they need.

"Unicef Azerbaijan is currently developing and testing new social worker programmes in several districts of Azerbaijan, alongside improved referral systems, but today I have asked my team to make this an absolute priority for our child protection work in Azerbaijan. We cannot afford more avoidable tragedies."

14-year-old pupil of school No 162 in the Sabail district of Baku Elina Hajiyeva threw herself from the 3rd floor of the school. Investigation into the fact is underway.