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February 6, 2025 – Azerbaijan –
Azerbaijan’s government has intensified its crackdown on independent media, with the recent arrests of two more journalists on smuggling charges, bringing the total number of detained media workers to at least 24 since November 2023. These arrests are part of broader investigations into three prominent independent outlets: Abzas Media, Toplum TV, and Meydan TV.
The latest detainees include Shamshad Agha, editor of the news website Argument, who was taken to court in Baku on February 6, 2025. Authorities accuse the journalists of smuggling foreign currency into the country, a charge that carries up to eight years in prison under Article 206.3.2 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code. However, media watchdogs and press freedom advocates argue that these charges are politically motivated, aimed at silencing critical voices and suppressing investigative journalism.
The pattern of arrests suggests a systematic effort to dismantle independent journalism in Azerbaijan. In addition to the smuggling charges, some journalists have faced other legal actions, including travel bans and administrative detentions. The government has also suspended operations of foreign media outlets, such as the BBC’s Azerbaijani service, further limiting the flow of independent information.
International organizations have condemned these actions. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders have called on Azerbaijani authorities to release detained journalists and respect press freedom. The U.S. State Department has also expressed concern over the deteriorating media environment in Azerbaijan.
Despite government assertions that the country upholds press freedom, the ongoing arrests and legal pressures indicate a shrinking space for independent journalism. As Azerbaijan prepares to host international events like the COP29 climate conference, the international community’s scrutiny of its human rights and press freedom record is likely to intensify.
Reference –
Two more journalists arrested in Azerbaijan on smuggling charges
