A Coalition of Public Figures Advocate for the Release of Professor Ibadoglu

On November 17, as Azerbaijan commemorated National Renaissance Day, a collective of prominent public figures organized a flashmob demanding the liberation of renowned economist Professor Gubad Ibadoglu.

Professor Ibadoglu has been in custody since July 24, when the Narimanov District Court in Baku ordered his detention for three months and 26 days on charges related to counterfeit money production. The Azerbaijani Interior Ministry has alleged that Ibadoglu has connections with supporters of Fethullah Gulen, who was accused of involvement in a coup attempt in Turkey in 2016. On August 25, Ibadoglu faced additional charges related to the "production, storage, or distribution of religious extremist materials."

Notably, on November 16, the same court extended the politician's detention for an additional three months. Gubad Ibadoglu vehemently refutes all allegations against him, deeming them baseless.

Numerous international organizations, governmental officials, and academic institutions have united in urging the Azerbaijani authorities to promptly release Ibadoglu. The European Parliament has even called for sanctions against Azerbaijani officials in response to Ibadoglu's persecution.

Attorney Zibeyda Sadygova has emphasized the absence of a legal foundation for the charges levied against the politician. Despite the defense's arguments, the court remained unmoved, and the decision will be subject to an appeal.

Furthermore, on November 16, Peter Stano, the spokesperson for the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy, expressed disappointment regarding the Baku court's decision to prolong Ibadoglu's detention.

Assistant Secretary of State James O'Brien, who oversees Europe and Eurasia, along with at least three members of the Congressional Committee on Foreign Affairs, publicly reiterated their calls for Ibadoglu's immediate release on November 15. O'Brien stressed the United States' commitment to securing Ibadoglu's freedom, affirming that they will persist in advocating for his release and for addressing any human rights violations in Azerbaijan.

The United Kingdom also defended Ibadoglu's rights at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on November 14, expressing concerns about restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The statement called on Azerbaijan to enhance the protection of human rights.