“Reporters Without Borders”: repression against journalists in Azerbaijan increases

Ahead of the trial in a case against journalists of the “Abzas Media” online publication, the “Reporters Without Borders” human rights organization called on to release employees of independent media outlets arrested in Azerbaijan.

The “Caucasian Knot” has reported that at a court hearing in the “Abzas Media” case held on December 17, the court dismissed most of the defence’s motions, including a motion to recuse judges.

The “Reporters Without Borders” human rights organization drew international attention to the persecution of journalists in Azerbaijan.

“The persecution of Sevindj Vagifgyzy and her colleagues, known for their investigations into high-level state corruption, illustrates the authoritarian tendencies of the Ilham Aliev’s regime. These prosecutions are part of a broader strategy to discredit and neutralize independent media like the ‘Abzas Media’ online publication,” stated Jeanne Cavelier, the head of Eastern Europe and Central Asia Desk at the “Reporters Without Borders” human rights organization.

The human rights defenders recalled that Sevindj Vagifgyzy was arrested at the Baku airport upon her return from Istanbul on November 21, 2023. “She has endured horrific conditions for over a year: overcrowded and unventilated cells, threats, moral and psychological pressure,” the “Reporters Without Borders” human rights organization points out.

The “Reporters Without Borders” also reported that the arrest of the “Abzas Media” journalists marked the beginning of a new wave of repression in the country. At least 20 independent media professionals are currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan.