The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted a resolution expressing serious concern over the systemic suppression of dissent in Azerbaijan. The resolution highlights the country’s low ranking in the Press Freedom Index and notes the existence of a restrictive legislative framework targeting media outlets, political parties, and non-governmental organizations.
The report condemns Azerbaijan’s non-participation in the Assembly’s work and points out that there are numerous judgments of the European Court of Human Rights requiring Azerbaijan to fulfill its human rights obligations.
The resolution calls for the immediate release of political prisoners and for proper investigations into abuses committed against journalists. It also urges member states and observer countries to take diplomatic measures to help secure their release.
The document further calls on international organizations to assist Azerbaijani activists living in exile in obtaining asylum and to reject extradition requests motivated by political considerations.
The Assembly stated that it intends to continue monitoring Azerbaijan’s compliance with democratic standards.
The document, prepared by the Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media, was adopted with 68 votes in favor, 8 against, and 6 abstentions.
