EU Parliament Approves Report Criticizing Azerbaijan's Human Rights Record
16 March 2023
The European Parliament has approved a report on Azerbaijan, prepared by Croatian MP Zhelyan Zobko, who serves as the rapporteur on Azerbaijan. During the debate around the report, the majority of deputies criticized the Azerbaijani authorities for violating international obligations, fundamental freedoms, and human rights.
The report notes that while the EU cooperates with Azerbaijan in the energy sector, it should not turn a blind eye to violations of human rights and the foundations of democracy in Azerbaijan, particularly in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine.
The deputies called for lifting restrictions on freedom of expression and the media, ensuring respect for fundamental human rights, and releasing political prisoners. The report also urges the EU to impose personal sanctions against Azerbaijani officials who violate human rights.
The deputies welcomed the contacts between Azerbaijan and Armenia to establish peace but expressed concern about the escalation of violence on the border. They also urged to ensure the fulfillment of humanitarian obligations and the free movement of citizens along the Lachin corridor.
The report notes that while the EU cooperates with Azerbaijan in the energy sector, it should not turn a blind eye to violations of human rights and the foundations of democracy in Azerbaijan, particularly in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine.
The deputies called for lifting restrictions on freedom of expression and the media, ensuring respect for fundamental human rights, and releasing political prisoners. The report also urges the EU to impose personal sanctions against Azerbaijani officials who violate human rights.
The deputies welcomed the contacts between Azerbaijan and Armenia to establish peace but expressed concern about the escalation of violence on the border. They also urged to ensure the fulfillment of humanitarian obligations and the free movement of citizens along the Lachin corridor.