A Look at the European Parliament's Resolution on Human Rights in Azerbaijan

On December 18, 2025, the European Parliament passed a resolution to address the worsening human rights and political freedom situation in Azerbaijan. The arrest and sentencing of researchers Bahruz Samadov and Igbal Abilov prompted this action, which also criticizes Azerbaijan's judicial system. The resolution mentions a sharp rise in political imprisonment, with almost 400 people detained on politically motivated charges since the start of 2025. These include professionals, activists, and civic leaders affected by a crackdown on dissent.

The Parliament is very concerned about the cases of Igbal Abilov and Bahruz Samadov. They studied the Talysh minority and were charged with treason in trials closed to the public and seen as unfair. Their imprisonment raises worries about misusing national security laws and their declining health. The detention of opposition leader Ali Karimli also shows the shrinking political space and weakening democratic competition. The European Parliament condemns these actions, calling the charges politically motivated and demanding the release of all political prisoners.

The resolution points out a weakening of academic freedom and free expression. The European Parliament wants Azerbaijan to align its laws with international human rights standards, protecting civic groups and preventing judicial harassment. The Parliament defines this harassment as legal actions used to silence critics. The document says the current legal system suppresses civil society, which international bodies are supposed to protect.

Regarding diplomatic actions, the resolution suggests the EU consider sanctions against officials responsible for human rights abuses. It also asks the EU Delegation in Baku and the EU Human Rights Special Representative to monitor these cases more closely. The document states that any future agreements between the EU and Azerbaijan must depend on actual progress in human rights and democratic governance.

This resolution shows a growing gap between Azerbaijan's promises and its actions. The European Parliament, by addressing rising political imprisonments and the silencing of academic voices, emphasizes its role as a global advocate for human rights. The situation questions the future of international relations in the region and the use of diplomacy to push for reform. The resolution acts as a guide for EU-Azerbaijan relations and a warning that suppressing dissent will cause international isolation and penalties.