On April 29, 2025, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights issued a press release calling on Azerbaijani authorities to release imprisoned human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society activists. The Commissioner expressed concern over the continued detention of individuals who have been deprived of their liberty for exercising their fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and association.
The press release highlights that many of those detained are in pre-trial detention, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the legal proceedings against them. The Commissioner emphasized that the Azerbaijani government should take immediate steps to release these individuals and ensure that their rights are fully respected.
This call from the Council of Europe adds to the growing international pressure on Azerbaijan to address human rights concerns and uphold its commitments to democratic principles and the rule of law.
For more information, you can read the full press release here: Council of Europe