CSP: a referendum is held in an atmosphere of repression

Baku/20.09.16 /Turan: Public Association “Civil Society Platform”'(CHR) is concerned about a new wave of repression launched in Azerbaijan in recent months. The suppression of fundamental human rights and freedoms, prosecution of critics of the government and the socio-economic crisis exacerbates not only socio-political situation in the country, but also generate tensions in international relations with Azerbaijan,  reads the statement  of the CSP.

CSP noted with regret that the recent attacks on civil society take on an organized character. Dozens of people  are imprisoned for political reasons. Despite calls for local and international democratic community for the immediate release of political prisoners increased repression occurs.

The courts, ignoring the right, perform the functions of execution of orders of political power. The campaign of the referendum on constitutional amendments  is taking place in an atmosphere of repression.

Campaign groups of the party "Musavat" and the REAL Movement opposing the amendments to the Constitution were not allowed to participate in the referendum campaign. Arrests of activists  of  NIDA  and REAL Movement, arrests for so-called "Gülen case" APFP activists, suspension of the release of "Azadlig" newspaper are measures aimed directly against the freedom of expression. It creates obstacles to the activities of civil society. The atmosphere of intolerance created in the country  discredits Azerbaijan in the eyes of progressive mankind.

CHR urges the authorities to take urgent measures to address this serious situation, to ensure the freedom of media and expression and other fundamental freedoms. -06d--