Global Outcry Grows Over Detention of Filipino Journalist Frenchiemae Cumpio
March 7, 2025
Two Kurdish Journalists Released After Detention, One Remains Held in Sulaymaniyah
March 7, 2025
March 07, 2025 -Azerbaijan –
Azerbaijan’s government has intensified its repression of independent media, particularly targeting journalists associated with Meydan TV, a Germany-based outlet critical of the regime. On February 20, 2025, freelance reporter Nurlan Gahramanli was arrested on charges of currency smuggling. Just over a week later, on February 28, Fatima Mövlamli, another freelance journalist for Meydan TV, was detained under similar allegations. Both were placed in pretrial detention, with Gahramanli held for one month and 17 days, and Mövlamli for one month and nine days.
These arrests are part of a broader campaign against independent journalism in Azerbaijan. Since late 2023, at least 25 journalists have been imprisoned, many on charges related to alleged foreign funding or smuggling. Authorities claim these funds are linked to foreign organizations, but journalists and media watchdogs argue that these charges are politically motivated attempts to silence dissenting voices.
Meydan TV has been a particular target. In December 2024, six of its journalists were arrested on similar charges. The outlet has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that the detentions are part of a concerted effort to suppress independent media in the country.
The international community, including organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders, has condemned these actions. They call for the immediate release of all detained journalists and the cessation of legal harassment against independent media outlets in Azerbaijan. These arrests highlight the shrinking space for press freedom in the country and the increasing risks faced by journalists who challenge the status quo.
As Azerbaijan continues its crackdown, the future of independent journalism in the country remains uncertain. The international community’s response will be crucial in determining whether these efforts to stifle dissent will succeed or if press freedom can be preserved.
Reference –
