Iqbal Abilov to Edit Talysh Studies Almanac from Prison

Iqbal Abilov

The Talysh researcher Iqbal Abilov, who was sentenced to 18 years in prison in Azerbaijan, intends to edit a scientific collection from his prison confinement. A scientific almanac on Talysh studies will be published under his editorship.

The Virtual Talysh National Academy, edited by Iqbal Abilov, announced an open call for articles for a multidisciplinary scientific almanac dedicated to Talysh studies, titled “Acta Talyshica” ("Talysh Studies"), according to a statement from the Committee for the Protection of Iqbal Abilov's Rights.

Previously unpublished studies in Talysh, English, Russian, and Azerbaijani languages are accepted for publication.

The deadline for submission of works to actatalyshica@protonmail.com is February 1, 2026.

"The fact that the preparation of such a scientific collection in Azerbaijan is taking place for the first time under prison conditions is symptomatic and demonstrative," the Committee notes.

Despite being held in harsh prison conditions, Abilov continues his scientific research.

"The only possible response to the criminal prosecution of science, threats against the scholar, attempts to discredit, vilify, and isolate him from society is to stand firm and continue objective research. And this is possible by defending academic standards through free and independent scientific research," the Committee's statement concludes.

Iqbal Abilov, an Azerbaijani citizen who lived in Belarus since childhood, arrived in Azerbaijan in 2024 for his cousin's wedding and was detained on suspicion of collaborating with Armenian special services. Subsequently, the court found him guilty under articles related to treason and inciting national hatred and sentenced Abilov to 18 years in prison.

Abilov's relatives and human rights activists consider his research on Talysh culture to be the true reason for his persecution.