EU Concerned About Serious Restrictions on Media Freedom in Azerbaijan

Kajsa Ollongren, the European Union's Special Representative for Human Rights, has expressed concern over serious restrictions on media freedom in Azerbaijan. This was stated in Ollongren's report for August-September 2025, which was published on October 7. According to Ollongren, she voiced this concern during a meeting with Azerbaijani journalists currently working in exile.

According to the report, the Azerbaijani journalists who met with Ollongren stated that they are working "in exile because the activity of independent media in Azerbaijan has become impossible in recent months." They informed the Special Representative that the detentions and arrests of journalists in the country were primarily carried out under false charges of smuggling. The journalists also noted the extremely harsh conditions of detention, as well as the lack of basic hygiene products, nutrition, and medical care.

Kajsa Ollongren emphasized that the violation of media independence and the repression against journalists in the country cause deep concern. She stated that free and independent media is the foundation of a functioning democratic society, and honest politicians must openly discuss the realities reflected by the media, protecting the interests of citizens, without hesitation. The Special Representative for Human Rights underscored the importance of the Azerbaijani authorities creating a safer and freer environment for journalists. Kajsa Ollongren noted that free and independent media is one of the cornerstones of a functioning democratic society. She stressed that the European Union considers the protection of journalists and ensuring media freedom a priority.

"Without ensuring the safety of journalists and the media, society cannot adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability," the Special Representative declared.

During the meeting, it was noted that the Office of the European Union's Special Representative for Human Rights will continue to monitor the human rights and media freedom situation in Azerbaijan closely and will support the protection of journalists in cooperation with international partners.

It should be noted that according to the latest report by the Union for the Freedom of Political Prisoners of Azerbaijan, 31 journalists and bloggers are currently held in prisons in the country.