European Parliament condemns human rights violations in Azerbaijan

The European Parliament today strongly criticised Azerbaijan for systematic human rights violations, in particular the illegal imprisonment of Armenian prisoners and the suppression of political opposition. MEPs call for the immediate release of all political prisoners and for fair and transparent trials.

MEPs express concern at the decision of the Azerbaijani authorities to restrict the activities of humanitarian organisations such as the International Red Cross, which makes it difficult to provide assistance to victims of repression. They also warn that this situation may escalate further and threaten regional stability.

Parliament is therefore calling for the introduction of targeted sanctions against Azerbaijani officials responsible for human rights violations. It also calls for the EU-Azerbaijan strategic partnership to be suspended until the country complies with its international obligations in the field of human rights and the rule of law.

The European Commission must now prepare concrete steps to enforce these demands and ensure that the EU has a consistent approach to human rights issues in its international relations.