Download the statement on the right
With other international NGOs participating in the International Partnership Group on Azerbaijan (IPGA), the Human Rights House Foundation (HRHF) has expressed its deep concern regarding the alarming state of freedom of expression in Azerbaijan, which has significantly worsened in the weeks since the Eurovision Song Contest was held in Baku in May 2012.
In a joint statement issued on 25 June 2012, the NGOs expressed their concern by highlighting various situations that occured after the Eurovision.
Documents:
- Post-Eurovision IPGA letter
- Photographer in Azerbaijan detained for his professional work
- Disappointingly weak stance on freedom of the media by EBU
- Azerbaijani journalist brutally attacked
- Azerbaijan: In Solidarity with Khadija Ismayilova
Related articles:
Running scared: Azerbaijan’s silenced voices:
The current state of freedom of expression in Azerbaijan is alarming, as the cycle of violence against journalists and impunity for their attackers continues; journalists, bloggers, human rights defenders and political and civic activists face increasing pressure, harassment and interference from the authorities.
Many who express opinions critical of the authorities – whether through traditional media, online, or by taking to the streets in protest – find themselves imprisoned or otherwise targeted in retaliation.
A broad coalition of international and Azerbaijani NGOs report on the human rights situation in the country – in their report, the NGOs examin the situation in Azerbaijan from the time of their first joint mission to the country in September 2010 to March 2012.
