Published: April 25, 2025
On April 25, 2025, Azerbaijani journalist and Xural Media Group founder Avaz Zeynalli was released early from prison — a decisive moment that affirms the effectiveness of the advocacy campaign led by the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety (IRFS). His release, granted by the Nizami District Court under Judge Nigar Qadirli, followed sustained public and international pressure that IRFS helped mobilize over nearly three years.
Zeynalli had been held in detention since September 11, 2022, arrested in connection with his journalistic activities. Despite charges of bribery and influence peddling, he consistently maintained his innocence, stating that the case was politically motivated and aimed at silencing independent media voices in Azerbaijan.
The severity of his imprisonment drew widespread concern. Zeynalli spent five months in complete isolation under the State Security Service (DTX), without contact with his family or legal representatives. After being transferred to the Baku Investigative Detention Center, his health declined rapidly. He underwent eye surgery without receiving proper postoperative care and lost over 25 kilograms during his time in custody — a clear sign of medical neglect.
On February 27, 2024, he was sentenced to nine years in prison. Though the Supreme Court later reduced his sentence by two months, the overall judgment was upheld. Zeynalli was ultimately convicted under Articles 311.3.3, 311.3.4, and 312-1.1 of the Criminal Code.
In April 2025, a medical report confirmed that Zeynalli was suffering from stage 4 metastatic colon cancer, which had spread to his liver. The report stated unequivocally that the Azerbaijani prison system lacked the capacity to provide the specialized oncological care he urgently required. His continued detention, therefore, posed a grave risk to his life.
This campaign included a widely supported joint letter, public advocacy efforts, and diplomatic outreach. It was this collective pressure — that ultimately resulted in the court’s ruling to release Zeynalli on April 25, 2025.
Zeynalli’s release is not merely an isolated legal outcome; it is a clear and tangible validation of the power of civil society to effect change. It stands as proof that when we unite and act with determination, even entrenched systems can be moved.
IRFS extends its sincere gratitude to the organizations that stood with us in this campaign and signed the joint letter calling for Avaz Zeynalli’s release:
International Press Institute (IPI)
Index on Censorship
European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF)
Their solidarity and support were instrumental in securing this outcome.