The European Parliament calls for sanctions against Azerbaijan over the arrest of Gubad Ibadoglu

Bakı/15.09.23/Turan:  In a decisive move, the European Parliament adopted a resolution last Thursday addressing the case of Gubad Ibadoglu, a prominent opposition leader and economist who has been detained in Azerbaijan. The resolution strongly condemns Ibadoglu's criminal prosecution, which is seen as being based on unfounded and politically motivated charges. It calls for the imposition of sanctions against Azerbaijani officials responsible for serious human rights violations under the European Union's Global Act sanctions regime.

The resolution garnered overwhelming support, with 539 out of 569 deputies present voting in favor, while 24 abstained, and 6 voted against the document. This resounding endorsement underscores the European Parliament's commitment to upholding human rights and challenging political repression.

Ghalib Togrul, the brother of Gubad Ibadoglu and himself incarcerat, shed light on the resolution during an interview on the program "Difficult Question." According to Togrul, the European Parliament's resolution goes beyond merely denouncing Ibadoglu's unjust prosecution. "This document also touches upon the facts of human rights violations in Azerbaijan and calls for an end to the persecution of citizens for political reasons," Togrul stated.

The resolution reflects the European Parliament's deep understanding of the human rights situation in Azerbaijan. It not only demands the immediate release of Gubad Ibadoglu but also underscores that human rights must take precedence in all interactions with Azerbaijan, be it negotiations or the conclusion of agreements. The resolution asserts that human rights issues cannot be relegated to secondary status or sacrificed for economic interests.

Togrul highlighted another crucial aspect of the adopted resolution: a call to action directed at the leadership of the European Union (EU) and the EU High Representative. Specifically, the resolution urges them to impose sanctions on Azerbaijani officials who have egregiously violated human rights, invoking the Global Act of the EU sanctions regime.

The resolution further emphasizes the necessity of removing restrictions and obstacles to fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. These provisions underscore the European Parliament's unwavering commitment to defending human rights and promoting democratic values in Azerbaijan.

As the European Parliament takes a firm stance against political repression and human rights abuses, the resolution sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated, even in the face of economic interests. It reaffirms the EU's commitment to upholding fundamental rights and freedoms, not only within its borders but across the globe.--0--