Geneva, UN Human Rights Council – March 20th, 2025 –During the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, IRFS denounced the ongoing repression and crackdown on civil society in Azerbaijan. These actions violate fundamental democratic principles, including freedom of expression, association, and the press.
IRFS highlighted that while Azerbaijan hosted COP29 in November 2024, the government intensified its institutional repression against anyone daring to challenge the authoritarian regime of President Aliyev. This led to the arrest and persecution of journalists, academics, scientists, civil society members, and activists.
The organization also stressed that the crackdown extended beyond Azerbaijan’s borders. In a shocking case, activist and blogger Vidadi Isgandarli was brutally murdered in his apartment in France. The nature of the crime and its execution strongly suggest the involvement of the Azerbaijani government, raising serious concerns about its use of transnational repression.
Additionally, political repression remains a daily reality in Azerbaijan. IRFS cited the cases of journalist Afghan Sadigov and human rights activist Avtandil Mammadov. Both were forced to flee to Georgia for political reasons and sought asylum, only to have their requests denied. They now face the imminent threat of extradition to Azerbaijan, where they risk torture and imprisonment.
Inside Azerbaijan, the situation continues to deteriorate. Lawyers and journalists are under heavy surveillance, and more than 100 civil society representatives have been interrogated, fostering a climate of fear. Currently, over 360 political prisoners remain behind bars, in direct contradiction of Azerbaijan’s international commitments.
Therefore, IRFS urges the Azerbaijani government to cease its repression, respect fundamental human rights, and release all political prisoners immediately.Furthermore, the organization calls on the international community to take action against Azerbaijan’s growing repression and demand the protection of fundamental human rights.