IRFS representative, Emin Huseynov speaks at OSCE Warsaw meeting on the alarming situation concerning media freedom in Azerbaijan

The annual OSCE Human Dimension Conference (HDIM 2025) is currently taking place in Warsaw, Poland. The high-level event began on October 6 and is scheduled to run until October 17, bringing together participants including diplomats, human rights defenders, journalists, and representatives of international organizations from all 57 OSCE participating States.

Overview of Emin Huseynov’s Speech

Emin Huseynov, a representative of the Institute for Reporters' Freedom and Safety (IRFS), delivered a speech to highlight the alarming situation concerning media freedom and freedom of expression in Azerbaijan, describing the environment for independent journalism as "never been more hostile."

Key Points from the Speech

Consolidation of Control: Huseynov stated that the authorities in Azerbaijan have "consolidated full control over the media" through measures such as a single state registry, mandatory licensing, government-issued press cards, and limits on foreign ownership.

Imprisoned Journalists: The speech cited data from the Council of Europe’s Platform for the Protection of Journalism and the Safety of Journalists, reporting that Azerbaijan currently holds the highest number of imprisoned journalists in the region with 40 individuals. This figure exceeds those recorded in Belarus (35), the Russian Federation (29), and Türkiye (25). When adjusted for population, he noted that Azerbaijan has the highest rate of imprisoned journalists in the world.

Fabricated Charges: Journalists are being arrested on "fabricated and politically motivated charges," with many accused of "smuggling," which Huseynov characterized as a pretext used to punish those who expose "high-level corruption, human rights abuses, and electoral manipulation."

Targeted Media Outlets: Independent media outlets—specifically Abzas Media, Meydan TV, and Toplum TV—have been "deliberately targeted through mass arrests and judicial harassment."

Cases of Concern: Huseynov drew attention to two imprisoned journalists with severe health issues:

Hafiz Babaly: An investigative journalist and editor at the Turan News Agency, detained on charges linked to the Abzas Media case, who "requires urgent medical attention."

Alasgar Mammadli: A media expert and founder of Toplum TV, who "suffers from severe health issues while in detention and is in need of immediate treatment." Huseynov warned that their continued imprisonment poses a "serious risk to their lives and well-being."

Financial Retaliation: Journalists and their family members face financial punishment, including having their bank accounts frozen. Huseynov mentioned that "over 10 families of targeted journalists" have shared stories about losing access to their accounts, making it difficult to cover basic living costs.

Climate of Fear: The combination of legal harassment, financial restrictions, and personal insecurity has created a "pervasive climate of fear," forcing many media professionals to choose between their "safety and their profession."