PACE Standing Committee: freedoms in Azerbaijan still a serious concern
Although it describes the electoral process observed around the presidential election day in Azerbaijan (9 October 2013) as “free, fair and transparent”, PACE considers that fundamental freedoms remain “a serious concern” in the country. The report by Robert Walter (United Kingdom, EDG), approved today by the PACE Standing Committee in Vienna, stresses that the authorities must take steps to ensure freedom of expression and assembly are fully observed as part of the democratisation process.
PACE also calls on the Azerbaijani authorities to act on the Venice Commission’s recommendations concerning electoral legislation and encourages the development of a “strong and credible opposition” if the population is to be given a real choice in future elections. -02D-
Politics
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Moldova has decided to unilaterally terminate the Moldovan-Russian agreement from 1998 on the creation and operation of cultural centers.
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By the order of the head of state, Rufat Mahmud has been appointed the new head of the historical and architectural reserve "Icheri Sheher" – the historic center of Baku.
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On February 13, the Appeal Court did not satisfy the defense's appeal against the decision of the Khatai Court regarding the arrest of journalist Shahnaz Beylargizi. According to the lawyer, the journalist herself did not participate in the trial due to poor health. The defense intends to submit a petition to replace the arrest with house arrest.
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Azerbaijan will limit 'Sputnik Azerbaijan' and 'BBC News Azərbaycanca' editorial offices. This was reported by the country's pro-government media on 13 February, citing an informed source.
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