Human rights in the South Caucasus– Update as of 01/11/2024

Consider subscribing for free access to the full content!

Azerbaijan: situation of political prisoners and judicial developments

In a report dated October 8, the organizations Human Rights Watch and Freedom Now once again drew the international community’s attention to the Azerbaijani government’s repressive policies toward the media, civil society, and political dissidents. With COP29 set to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22, the government aims to silence any criticism questioning its legitimacy as the host country. In this context, activist Anar Mammadli was arrested on April 29, two months after founding the organization Climate of Justice Initiative to advocate for social and environmental justice in the lead-up to COP29. Accused of organized smuggling, he faces up to eight years in prison. According to the Azerbaijani media outlet Meydan.tv, Mammadli’s health has deteriorated, and he has repeatedly requested appropriate medical care. To date, his requests reportedly have not been considered by prison authorities. In Azerbaijan, the treatment of detainees—particularly political prisoners—is frequently criticized by human rights organizations. On October 17, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) condemned Azerbaijan for violating the right to life and the prohibition of torture following the death of a detainee in prison.