This Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 13:00 CET, on the sidelines of the Winter Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the event titled ‘Azerbaijan’s Alarming Human Rights Crisis: Undermining the Council of Europe’s Values’ will take place. Organized by the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety (IRFS) and Ms. Laura Castel Fort, the discussion will delve into Azerbaijan’s persistent non-compliance with Council of Europe norms.
Reports reveal over 331 political prisoners in Azerbaijan, a marked escalation in violations of freedom of expression, assembly, and association. Civil society and independent media face relentless persecution, with NGOs increasingly restricted by draconian laws and politically motivated prosecutions. Recent arrests, including those of journalists from Meydan TV and prominent activists, highlight the regime’s ongoing efforts to suppress dissent.
A platform for engaging policymakers, activists, and stakeholders, the event aims to foster dialogue on holding Azerbaijan accountable, advocating for the release of political prisoners, and pushing for structural reforms to protect freedoms in the region. Discussions will shine a light on the state’s systematic use of kleptocracy and attempts to silence critical voices, raising serious concerns about its commitment to the Council of Europe human rights standards.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
- Time: 13:00 CET
- Location: Room 7 – PACE Winter Session, Strasbourg
- Organizers: IRFS, Ms. Laura Castel Fort