Amnesty International: Repression Deepens in Azerbaijan

Amnesty International released its annual report on April 21, sharply criticizing the human rights situation in Azerbaijan. The report states that Azerbaijani authorities crush all forms of dissent without mercy, with hundreds of people held in detention on what the organization describes as groundless, politically motivated charges.

The report highlights the suppression of peaceful protests, widespread torture and ill-treatment, and a culture of impunity for those responsible. Women and LGBTI+ individuals face both state harassment and gender-based violence, the organization noted.

The document also criticizes amendments to the 2022 Media Law, which granted authorities sweeping powers to block independent websites and shut down foreign media offices. The BBC's Azerbaijani service and the Turan News Agency have both been forced to suspend operations. Approximately 30 media workers remain behind bars, and dozens of journalists and activists have been subjected to unannounced travel bans.

Despite the deteriorating rights situation, Azerbaijan has managed to expand its strategic partnerships with both the United States and the European Union — a dynamic Amnesty International flags as a troubling double standard from Western governments.