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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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Pardoned former official Saleh Rustamov, a Russian citizen, was barred from leaving Azerbaijan after visiting for a funeral. Border services gave no reason. His lawyer challenges the travel ban, raising concerns about the freedom of movement for former political prisoners.

Sevinj Vagifgizi advocates for boundless journalism, stating that truth is universal and must not be sacrificed to state interests. She demands a world where no journalist faces threats, imprisonment, or death for revealing facts. Telling the truth must become a normal standard.

Discover how Azerbaijan's full membership in the Central Asian '6' bloc is reshaping Eurasia. Learn about the strategic shift, the impact on the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian Route), and the push for greater regional independence and geo-economic cohesion.

Baku Appeals Court affirmed the arrests of PFPA activists Farid Guliyev and Valishan Hasanov. The PFPA claims the arrests are political, tied to their support for Ali Karimli, and criticizes the court for refusing to review surveillance footage during the formal appeal process.

Investigative journalist Hafiz Babalı, sentenced to 9 years in the "Abzas Media case," defies his unjust imprisonment. Read his powerful public address from prison: "The stones you throw will return like a boomerang." A fierce fight for media freedom and justice.

Baku Court hears arguments for activists Anar Mammadli & Anar Abdulla, challenging charges as politically motivated. The defense cites the government's failure to annul an illegal ECtHR-ruled conviction and using the NGO's unregistered status against him. This raises Rule of Law concerns.

Former Azerbaijani political prisoner and Russian citizen, Saleh Rustamov, was unexpectedly barred from leaving Azerbaijan on Nov 18 at Baku Airport due to an unexplained travel ban. The incident raises questions about the rights of pardoned political figures and freedom of movement.

Reports expose alleged rights violations and tightened security at Baku Pre-Trial Detention Center (BİT). Following contraband discovery, intense searches and structural changes are reportedly used to pressure political prisoners and infringe on their right to a lawyer.

Imprisoned religious activist Nigar Baghirova is on a hunger strike protesting her detention extension. She claims state weakness & demands "Acquittal or Martyrdom." Read her defiant interview: "Living with fear is scarier than prison."

Georgia will shut down its Anti-Corruption Bureau by 2026. The EU quickly criticized this move, saying it harms Georgia's chances of joining the Union. The government claims it is saving resources, but many worry it weakens democracy and reduces watchfulness against corruption.

Journalist Nurlan Libre, arrested in the "Meydan TV case," writes from prison: "I will continue writing." Read his powerful letter on detention, the struggle for a free press, and his unwavering commitment to conveying the truth, despite facing 8-12 years. He regrets nothing.