How Azerbaijan’s Media Was Brought to Heel by Presidential Power
March 12, 2025
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March 12, 2025 – Azerbaijan –
Azerbaijan’s increasingly repressive media environment continues to draw international concern, as the regime of President Ilham Aliyev systematically silences foreign and independent media voices. A recent wave of reports highlights how the government has created a near-monopoly over the country’s information landscape ahead of and following national elections, leaving little room for dissent or investigative journalism.
According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the Azerbaijani authorities have taken deliberate steps to block access to foreign media outlets, including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), Voice of America, and Deutsche Welle. These measures extend beyond digital censorship; journalists associated with these platforms have faced harassment, detentions, and smear campaigns. The government uses administrative hurdles and vaguely defined national security laws to criminalize independent reporting.
In tandem, the state has tightened its grip over domestic media. Most major television channels and print outlets are either state-run or owned by individuals with close ties to the ruling elite. As a result, media coverage overwhelmingly favors President Aliyev and the ruling New Azerbaijan Party. Independent journalists working within the country face immense pressure, including surveillance, threats, and fabricated charges ranging from tax evasion to drug possession. These tactics are meant to suppress critical coverage and prevent any challenges to the official narrative.
During recent election cycles, international observers have raised red flags about the lack of pluralism and transparency in the Azerbaijani press. With opposition voices marginalized and civil society groups weakened, the elections have largely lacked the hallmarks of democratic legitimacy.
Despite international criticism, the government has shown little willingness to reform. Laws passed in recent years further restrict media activity, forcing outlets to register with authorities and comply with censorship rules. This environment leaves Azerbaijani citizens with limited access to independent news, especially in rural areas where digital alternatives are scarce.
The coordinated silencing of both foreign and local media underscores the Aliyev regime’s broader authoritarian trend—curbing dissent, consolidating power, and isolating the Azerbaijani public from global discourse and accountability.
Reference –
https://www.rferl.org/a/azerbaijan-independent-media-muzzled-election-aliyev/29152516.html
Azerbaijan goes to the polls amid muzzled media and blocked websites
https://rsf.org/en/azerbaijan-foreign-media-muzzled-llham-aliyevs-regime
