Independent journalists, human rights defenders and activists have been arrested on politically motivated charges in Azerbaijan in recent months. In particular, representatives of such independent media as Abzas Media, Toplum TV, Channel 11 and Channel 13, and participants in political movements were arrested. The press service for foreign affairs and security of the European Union recalled this.

The European press service also stated that on May 25, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on amnesty for 154 convicts. There was not a single political prisoner among them.

“The European Union continues to call on Azerbaijan to release all prisoners for the exercise of their fundamental rights. We are especially concerned about the health status of Gubad Ibadoglu and Alasgar Mammadli. We once again call on the Azerbaijani authorities to lift the travel ban on Mr. Ibadoglu so that he can receive the medical care he desperately needs,” the appeal reads.

In conclusion, the authors indicated that the European Union is committed to continuing dialogue with Azerbaijan, including in the field of human rights.