Freedom House again Recognized Azerbaijan Not Free Country

Freedom House released a regular report on the level of political and civil liberties in 195 countries around the world. Of these countries, 87 are rated free, 59 - partly free and 49 - not free.

Azerbaijan has once again for several years in a row added to the number of not free countries. At the same time, over the past 10 years the situation in Azerbaijan has been only getting worse, the report said.

Last year's referendum on changes to the Constitution is regarded as the desire of Ilham Aliyev to continue steps to strengthen his personal power.

Comparing Azerbaijan with neighboring countries, the report authors note that Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova are moving towards democracy, while Azerbaijan and a number of other Eastern countries are prone to instability, as there are attempts to strengthen the existing power. To that end, Ilham Aliyev held a referendum to ensure the preservation of his power, the report said.

According to the report, the situation in Azerbaijan is worse than in Cuba, China or Iran. At the same time, Azerbaijan's neighbors, Armenia and Georgia, are included in the number of partly free countries.

Turkey, Russia and Iran are also among not free countries, and the situation in Turkey is rapidly deteriorating, although the country was considered free a short time ago.

Official Baku has ceased to respond to the reports of international organizations, where it is constantly criticized. -16D-