Latest News & Updates

Akif Gurbanov reports confiscated writings and restricted calls in Baku Detention Center. Learn about the Toplum TV case, the pressure on Azerbaijani activists, and Gurbanov's continued fight for democracy and free speech from behind bars.

Imprisoned journalist Polad Aslanov placed in solitary confinement after a prison assault. His wife, Gulmira Aslanova, raises concerns over unfair punishment and safety. Human rights advocates demand government accountability for his treatment.

Read about the brave protest of Azerbaijani journalists in the Meydan TV case. Facing charges of smuggling and financial crimes, these 12 independent reporters fight for press freedom in Baku. "Being a journalist is not a crime," they declare.

Ismayil Mammadov, a prisoner in Azerbaijan facing drug charges he denies, has started a hunger strike. Denied family visits and phone calls for over a month, his health is failing. Learn more about religious prisoners and human rights in Azerbaijan.

Read about the reported violence at Penitentiary No. 17, where a prisoner's head was allegedly jammed in a door. Explore details on inmate protests against poor conditions, safety concerns in facilities, and the impact on religious activists.

Azerbaijani activist Samira Gasimli’s court case moves to Yasamal District Court. Facing up to 6 months in prison over Facebook posts following the arrest of her husband, scientist Azer Gasimli, she claims the charges are politically motivated.

The European Court of Human Rights investigates the Terter Case torture scandal in Azerbaijan's military. Families demand justice for 2017 events, seeking government accountability and an official apology for the victims of these human rights abuses.

Learn about Azerbaijani cybersecurity expert Ilgar Aliyev, who died in custody on May 1, 2026. This report covers his work with AbzasMedia, the controversial legal charges he faced, and calls from human rights groups for a transparent investigation.

Read about activist Imran Aliyev’s testimony in a Baku court regarding his treatment after arrest. Learn about the Meclis.info case involving USAID/US Embassy funding, allegations of torture, and the legal struggle facing multiple Baku activists.

The 2026 World Press Freedom Index by RSF ranks Azerbaijan 171st as global media freedom hits a 25-year low. With dozens of journalists imprisoned and mounting state control, discover how the South Caucasus and the world are performing in 2026.

Read about the hunger strike of activist Mansur Valishov in Azerbaijan. Following a controversial 2023 conviction and a sudden prison transfer to Lankaran, his family and human rights groups raise alarms over his safety and the lack of contact.

Read about the critical gap in Azerbaijan's disability support system. As children with autism turn 18, families face a 7-8 month wait for guardianship and benefits, leaving many without food or income. Explore the stories of Ahmad Rahmanov and others.

The ECHR seeks answers from the Azerbaijani government regarding the secret recording of Gultekin Hajibeyli's private meetings with diplomats. Explore the details of this legal battle over privacy, state surveillance, and freedom of expression.

Journalist Andrzej Pochobut has been released in a "5-for-5" prisoner exchange between Belarus and Poland. Discover details on the US involvement, the role of John Cole, and Pochobut’s 2025 Sakharov Prize win for freedom of thought in this report.

Mehriban Rahimli testifies in Baku Court: Former GMF advisor denies all charges of forgery and abuse, asserting that no one would dare bribe her. Read the latest updates on the investigation into civil society activists and NGO trials.

Read about the recent execution of political prisoner Amir Ramesh in Iran. Explore reports on Jaish al-Adl, human rights concerns regarding forced confessions, and the rising trend of capital punishment following recent social unrest in the country.

Baku Appeals Court rejects defense requests in Azer Gasimli’s case. The 12-year sentence for the political analyst remains controversial as key witnesses aren't questioned. Explore the latest updates on human rights and politics in Azerbaijan.

UN experts challenge Azerbaijan over the treatment and 8-9 year sentences of Abzas Media journalists. Investigation into reports of solitary confinement, poor detention conditions, and strategic prison transfers affecting Sevinj Vaqifqizi and others.

Ramil Babayev reports on rising violence at Baku Pre-Trial Detention Center. He describes a brutal competition among officers for promotions, where use of force against prisoners is rewarded. A call for transparency in appointments to stop abuse.

Is PM Ali Asadov the next target? Explore the hidden business empire of Azerbaijan's Prime Minister, its ties to the ruling elite, and what recent media leaks mean for his political future. Insightful analysis on power, wealth, and transparency.