All Articles

ECHR rules in favor of 'Azadlig' newspaper, declaring a 2012 fine over a critical article about the Baku Metro's finances was a violation of press freedom. The court ordered Azerbaijan to pay €29,500 in damages. A landmark decision for journalism and free speech.

Six jailed journalists and activists in Baku formed the Committee for the Protection of Political Prisoners (CPPP) on Nov 24 to fight systematic human rights violations and protect the interests of 392 political prisoners. They cite compromised courts as the primary concern.

Tense Baku court hearing for Toplum TV journalists: Farid Ismayilov challenged smuggling charges and demanded Customs Head Shahin Bagirov testify, questioning his state honor amid media arrests. The case highlights major concerns about media freedom and political motivations in Azerbaijan. Read more.

Jailed journalist Ulviyya Ali (Guliyeva) shares the poignant story of Enver, an exploited "household worker" in the Baku Pre-trial Detention Center. Learn about his unseen labor, his dedication of a 340 AZN salary to an old loan, and his simple, heartbreaking wish for dignity and a meal in freedom. A powerful testament to social injustice and the value of human labor.

Azerbaijani activist Afiaddin Mammadov exposes severe corruption and extreme overcrowding (1800/800 capacity) in Prison Facility No. 2. His letter details bribe demands for early release and denial of video calls, urging the government to declare a major amnesty and focus on job creation.

COP30 in the Amazon failed to deliver a critical fossil fuel phase-out agreement, despite scientific warnings and public protests. Oil states, powerful lobbyists, and the US absence created a "missed chance," widening the gap between climate talks and the urgent need to cut emissions by 5% annually.

Political prisoner Elman Sheydayev starts a hunger strike and sews his mouth shut in an Azerbaijan prison, demanding the release of six religious women jailed on disputed charges related to charity work. This extreme protest highlights serious concerns about religious and political freedom. Read the full story.

Talish historian Zahireddin Ibrahimov's detention was extended by a Baku court on Nov 21. Charged with treason (Article 274) and inciting ethnic hatred by the SSS, the Russian citizen faces legal action over alleged foreign-backed actions against Azerbaijan's sovereignty. Full details on the case and his activism.

Chechnya's strict new dress codes (Gazyri ban, headscarves) spark debate: Is it cultural preservation, or a tool for political control and business advantage for the Kadyrov family's Firdaws fashion house? Critics argue rules often contradict Chechen customs (Adats).

Ukraine faces a difficult choice regarding Trump's peace plan, which demands major compromises like ceding 20% of land (Crimea, Donbas) and a NATO ban, risking US support. Europe views the proposal as surrender.

Georgia's government faces intense international pressure over new restrictive laws, including the Foreign Agents Act and a voter ban for citizens abroad. Critics from PACE and the UN warn these actions push Georgia away from its Euro-Atlantic path and align it with Moscow's political views.

Restarting strategic ties: The first Azerbaijan-US Think-Tank Meeting in Baku (Nov 2025) focused on the new partnership course, the peace process with Armenia, and energy security (TRIPP, green energy). The event launched multi-level cooperation and addressed challenges in the local research sector.

Tragedy at Lake Hotel, Baku: Four young workers (18, 19, 20, 28) died instantly on Nov 21 after their metal ladder struck a high-voltage power line in the Binagadi area. An investigation is underway into labor protection violations (Criminal Code 162.3). Details on the fatal accident and the privately owned 35 kV line.

Disturbing reports reveal inhumane conditions, forced labor, and alleged wage theft at the new Lankaran Prison Complex, where 12 female inmates are detained. Officials repeatedly cite "Inshallah" for critical missing medical and facility provisions. Demand accountability now.

54 days of detention and forced exile: Read the harrowing account of Azerbaijani activist Khanim Babazadeh. Detained and deported from Turkey after refusing to become an MIT informant, she faced physical assault and inhumane conditions under the G89 code. She was forced to flee her home country due to safety concerns.

The historical path from the Enlightenment movement (M.F. Akhundov) to the 1918 Republic and 1988 National Revival. Analyzing M.A. Rasulzade's "Revival" ideal, the post-Karabakh agenda for national independence and human liberty in Azerbaijan.

German family's tragic death at Istanbul's Harbour Suit Hotel (Nov 2025) due to suspected chemical poisoning (Aluminum Phosphide). Investigation points to illegal fumigation in the room below. Hotel staff and pest control face negligence charges.

Moscow launches the new 24/7 channel 'Nomad TV' in Kyrgyzstan just before elections. Led by an ex-RT producer, the channel offers double salaries to poach local journalists. This move, seen as Russian state propaganda, aims to boost waning influence in Central Asia and undermines the local independent media scene.

Neo-Nazi leader Michail Chkhikvishvili pleaded guilty to planning a mass casualty terror attack targeting Jewish children in NYC with poisoned sweets. The leader of the Maniac Murder Cult (MMC) also distributed bomb instructions and inspired global white supremacist violence. He faces up to 40 years.

Azer Gasimli trial update: Accuser's mother admits she didn't witness threats, citing hearsay. Defense argues lack of direct evidence in the extortion case. Read the full report on the latest court session and key testimony details.