Azerbaijan, notably the repression of civil society and the cases of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu and Ilhamiz Guliyev
The European Parliament strongly condemns Azerbaijan's increasing repression of civil society, activists, and independent media, noting the country ranks among the least free globally. The resolution specifically highlights the cases of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, a political economist transferred to house arrest after his health deteriorated in detention, and Ilhamiz Guliyev, a human rights defender facing charges after whistleblowing. The Parliament urges Azerbaijan to release all political prisoners, including Guliyev, and to drop charges against Ibadoghlu, ensuring he receives medical care and can travel abroad. Furthermore, the resolution calls for the repeal of repressive laws, demands that Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29 respects human rights, and suggests suspending energy partnerships and imposing EU sanctions on officials involved in violations.
Analysis
Azerbaijan has intensified its repression of civil society, activists, and independent media through detentions and judicial harassment, with nearly 300 political prisoners listed by civil society organisations.
What changes
- Urges the immediate and unconditional release of Ilhamiz Guliyev.
- Notes the transfer of Gubad Ibadoghlu to house arrest and calls for the travel ban to be lifted and charges dropped.
- Urges the immediate and unconditional release of all other political prisoners.
- Calls for the repeal of repressive legislation that marginalizes independent non-governmental organisations and media.
- Calls on the Commission to consider suspending the strategic partnership with Azerbaijan in the field of energy.
- Reiterates the call for EU sanctions to be imposed on Azerbaijani officials who have committed serious human rights violations.
Expected impact
- The resolution calls for the repeal of repressive legislation affecting independent non-governmental organisations and media.
- The resolution demands that the organisers of COP29 ensure human rights, fundamental freedoms, and effective civil society participation are fully enshrined and guaranteed in the Host Country Agreement.
- The Commission is called upon to consider suspending the strategic partnership with Azerbaijan in the field of energy.
Limitations
- The document is a resolution and does not contain specific legislative text that would be subject to detailed legal analysis of amendments or new provisions. It expresses the political stance and demands of the European Parliament.
- The document does not provide details on the specific content of the 'repressive legislation' mentioned in Article 3.
- The document does not specify the criteria or evidence required for imposing EU sanctions under Article 7.
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