UN Expert Raises Alarm Over Prosecution of Human Rights Defenders in Azerbaijan

A United Nations expert expressed deep concern over the increasing prosecution and harassment of human rights defenders and journalists in Azerbaijan. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Mary Lawlor, condemned the rising arrests and criminal cases against activists, calling for urgent action from the Azerbaijani government.

Lawlor highlighted the recent detention of six prominent defenders, including journalists, as part of what she described as a troubling trend aimed at stifling civil society. "In the past few months, there has been an alarming escalation in the repression of individuals who are exercising their legitimate right to speak out against human rights violations," she said. The expert called on Azerbaijan to release all detained defenders and to halt what she characterized as a “punitive approach” towards peaceful activism.

The UN’s Committee against Torture also raised concerns over reports of judicial harassment, as well as instances of torture and ill-treatment of detainees, further urging the country to ensure that investigations into these allegations are transparent and impartial​ (OHCHR).

Azerbaijan has faced long-standing criticism from international human rights bodies over its treatment of activists and journalists, with experts emphasizing that a vibrant civil society is essential for the prevention of rights abuses. Despite these warnings, reports indicate that the civic space in the country continues to shrink.

The Azerbaijani government has yet to respond to the latest calls from the UN to ensure the protection of human rights defenders