In brief
While preparing for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in November, Azerbaijan intensifies efforts to suppress dissent, jailing numerous activists and journalists, drawing criticism from human rights advocates.
Azerbaijan is preparing to host the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku this November. However, as the country gets ready for this high-stakes event with renovations and volunteer training, it simultaneously engages in a harsh campaign against dissent. Reports indicate that Azerbaijani authorities have arrested dozens of journalists and activists, marking what many consider the most severe repression in years.Instead of displaying openness to the international community, President Ilham Aliyev's government is suppressing independent voices in anticipation of COP29. Observers note that this crackdown seems aimed at eliminating any criticism before the summit. Analysts highlight that many of these arrests target journalists from renowned independent outlets and well-known activists who aim to use the climate conference to urge improvements in human rights and environmental policies.One notable case includes Anar Mammadli, a celebrated civil rights advocate arrested shortly after co-founding the Climate Justice Initiative—an organization focused on leveraging the COP event to advocate for significant reforms. As the world focuses on climate issues in Baku, the stark reality of repression plagues Azerbaijan’s civil society.
