The International Association for the Defense of Human Rights issued a statement regarding the increased pressure on independent journalists and activists in Azerbaijan, including the increase in their arrests. We are talking about Ulvi Hasanli, Sevinj Vagifgyzy and Magomed Kekalov.

Hasanli and Vagifgyzy headed Abzas Media, one of the few independent publications remaining in Azerbaijan, which published investigations into the business of the president’s family and his subordinates. According to the authors of the statement, the arrest of the mentioned journalists is another example of the recent increase in politically motivated persecution in Azerbaijan.

“In July 2023, economist and activist Gubad Ibadoglu, who criticized the government’s corruption policies, was arrested on false charges. Journalist Avaz Zeynalli, who previously lived as a political prisoner, is in prison on unfounded charges. Social activist Bakhtiyar Gadzhiev is in custody pending the completion of the investigation on charges of hooliganism and contempt of court,” the document notes.

Ulvi Hasanli and Sevinj Vagifgyzy were found guilty of importing smuggled currency into the country and were arrested for four months. If their guilt is proven, they face up to 8 years in prison. Similar charges have been brought against activist Magomed Kekalov. The investigation prohibited them from telephone conversations and meetings with relatives.