Jailed Labour Rights Activist in Azerbaijan Reportedly Subjected to Violence

Prison gates in Azerbaijan

An activist affiliated with the İşçi Masası (Workers' Desk) trade union confederation, currently held at Prison No. 10 in Azerbaijan, has reportedly been subjected to violence while in detention, according to Abzas Media.

While complaints about harsh conditions in Azerbaijani prisons are frequent, no information has emerged indicating that an official investigation into this particular incident has been launched. Trade union activists in Azerbaijan have faced mounting pressure in recent years, with their activities often prosecuted under charges of disturbing public order or other broad legal provisions.

International observers note that the systematic mistreatment of labour rights defenders in Azerbaijan contradicts the standards expected of Council of Europe member states. The Council of Europe's Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) issued a critical report in 2025 documenting overcrowding, police violence, and inadequate oversight in Azerbaijani detention facilities.