On December 19, the European Parliament adopted a resolution with 434 votes in favor, 30 against, and 89 abstentions, condemning the ongoing repression of civil society, independent media, and political opposition in Azerbaijan. The resolution demands targeted sanctions against Azerbaijani officials responsible for human rights violations.
The vote followed a December 18 parliamentary debate, where members addressed the suppression of civil liberties in Azerbaijan and the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. The resolution strongly denounces the Aliyev regime’s crackdown on press freedom and dissent.
The European Parliament calls for the immediate release of all individuals detained for political reasons, including journalists, human rights defenders, and opposition figures. It also highlights the inhumane conditions in Azerbaijani prisons, reports of torture, and targeted abuse of female political prisoners.
The resolution specifically mentions 23 Armenian captives, including former leaders of the unrecognized Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, and demands their immediate release in accordance with international human rights standards.
Several Members of Parliament, including Bert-Jan Ruissen and Marina Mesure, emphasized the need to extend sanctions against Azerbaijan due to its ongoing human rights violations and the forced displacement of Armenians. Mesure stated, “Azerbaijan remains one of the worst offenders when it comes to press freedom and human rights. Human Rights Watch has documented torture and degrading treatment of detainees, particularly following operations in Nagorno-Karabakh.”
The resolution also calls for the suspension of the 2022 energy cooperation memorandum with Azerbaijan, citing its persistent violations of human rights.
