FB Digest@VoxPOPULI   “For the first time in Azerbaijan's history of independence, a media organization faces such total repression for its critical materials and investigations…” (Lack of) Human Rights and Freedoms Journalist Ulvi Hasanli, who is currently in prison, wrote an open letter to his 1-year-and-six-month-old daughter. In his heartfelt letter, the journalist apologizes to his daughter for being unable to be with her during the last 90 days, clarifying that he, along with his colleagues, Sevinj Vaqifgizi, Nargiz Absalamova, Elnara Gasimova, Mahammad Kekalov, and Hafiz...


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FB Digest@VoxPOPULI   “Stealing billions of dollars from the state budget doesn't jeopardize statehood for some reason, but apparently, it is considered a serious threat to statehood when 5-10 children of Talish origin recite a few poems in their mother language…” (Lack of) Human Rights and Freedoms The pre-trial detention period for journalist Nargiz Absalamova, arrested in connection with the "AbzasMedia" criminal case, has been extended. On February 24, the Khatai District Court reviewed the prosecutor's presentation on this matter. The defense argued in court that the investigation...


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FB Digest@VoxPOPULI   “The police threaten the people with their families. They beat them and target them through coercion. They make people sign false statements through torture and threats. They behave however they want with people; the police treat individuals the way they want…” (Lack of) Human Rights and Freedoms The Sabail District Court has reviewed the case of Aziz Orucov, the director of "Kanal 13" internet television, concerning the extension of his pre-trial detention. The court has decided to extend Orucov's detention period by one month. Aziz Orucov, the founder...


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FB Digest@VoxPOPULI   “Ilham Aliyev is adopting Putin's tactics and may take similar actions against his political opponents…” (Lack of) Human Rights and Freedoms Azerbaijan is the only non-democratic country in the region, according to the Democracy Index published by the Economist Intelligence Unit for the year 2023. While Azerbaijan stands out as the sole non-democratic country in the region, neighboring countries Armenia and Georgia are ranked 84th and 89th, respectively, both recognized as hybrid regimes. Among the 165 states listed, Azerbaijan is placed at the 130th position....


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FB Digest@VoxPOPULI   “The OSCE report on the presidential elections was objective but could have been more assertive, suggesting that the organization could have expressed its opinions more directly in the report…” (Lack of) Human Rights and Freedoms Elzamin Salayev, a political prisoner, conveyed a message to his friends, revealing that he is experiencing pressure while incarcerated, and there are indications of potential provocations against him. Salayev expressed his concern that if the pressure persists, he may feel compelled to initiate another dry hunger strike. Given...


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