The reputation of those persecuted by the authorities is growing in society

President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan gave an extensive televised interview on January 7 to pro-government broadcasters, a format underscoring the tightly controlled media environment in the country. Notably absent were questions addressing public dissatisfaction over recent increases in utility prices, medicines, and basic goods, as well as modest adjustments to pensions and the minimum wage announced after the New Year.

As 2024 comes to a close, Azerbaijan finds itself at the crossroads of rapid political, economic, and social changes. The year was marked by key events that highlighted the country's ambitions and challenges, ranging from geopolitical shifts to domestic discontent.

On December 18, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to several Russian media outlets. He described Georgia as a "key factor in the West's battle for the Caucasus." President Aliyev also spoke about the significant external influence of Western countries on Georgia's domestic processes, highlighting the operations of thousands of foreign-funded non-governmental organizations (NGOs). He endorsed Russia's decision to ban USAID activities.

Municipal elections in Azerbaijan will be held on January 29, 2025. This was announced at the meeting of the Central Election Commission (CEC) on November 27.