12/09/2025 Legal Affairs and Human Rights
Christophe Lacroix (Belgium, SOC), PACE rapporteur on “Threats to life and safety of journalists and human rights defenders in Azerbaijan”, has issued the following statement:
“I am deeply disappointed by the recent judgment of the Baku Court of Appeal upholding the convictions of seven journalists from Abzas Media, an independent media outlet. Those finally sentenced to lengthy prison terms include its director, Ulvi Hasanli, who was recently shortlisted for the 2025 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize and has participated in PACE hearings in the past. In June 2025, Mr Hasanli was sentenced to nine years in prison and is currently detained under harsh conditions in a remote prison, where he has endured hunger strikes and solitary confinement. The charges against Mr Hasanli and his fellow editors, including “smuggling”, appear motivated by the aim of silencing critical voices, particularly those reporting on corruption.
The convictions of Abzas Media journalists are, regrettably, not isolated incidents, but form part of a broader and persistent pattern of pressure against members of Azerbaijan’s independent media and civil society.
Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of any functioning democracy. Efforts to restrict independent reporting, particularly on issues of transparency and accountability, undermine the very foundations of good governance.
I stand in solidarity with Azerbaijan’s courageous journalists and human rights defenders. I reaffirm my commitment to supporting their work and will continue to advocate for their release, in line with Azerbaijan’s obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights.
I urge the authorities to return to the path of meaningful dialogue. Respecting human rights, promoting pluralism and engaging constructively with partners in the international community are essential steps towards a prosperous and peaceful future.”