On the State of Press Freedom in Azerbaijan: Reflections Amid the Shusha Global Media Forum

The 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum, organized under the auspices of the Azerbaijani government, takes place at a time when many observers express serious concerns regarding the state of press freedom and media independence in the country. According to available data, there are currently at least 375 political prisoners in Azerbaijan, including 29 journalists, 9 of whom are women. This reality casts a long shadow over any efforts to promote a narrative of openness or media development.

While the forum seeks to highlight Azerbaijan’s role in fostering global media dialogue, it coincides with an ongoing domestic climate in which numerous journalists face prosecution, detention, or other forms of pressure—often on charges widely considered to be politically motivated.

It is particularly concerning that, despite the participation of around 140 media representatives and delegates from 52 countries, there has been little to no public acknowledgment of the pressing challenges faced by Azerbaijani journalists. International media engagement in such forums holds great potential, but silence on the issue of media repression risks being perceived as tacit endorsement of the status quo.

A poignant example is journalist Avaz Zeynalli, who devoted decades to independent journalism and now, facing a serious illness reportedly contracted in detention, is compelled to sell books in a park to fund his treatment. Many other journalists currently remain behind bars even as the country marks its National Press Day.

We firmly believe that genuine press freedom cannot be showcased through curated events alone. It must be reflected in the daily realities faced by journalists on the ground—free from intimidation, imprisonment, or censorship.

As a civil organization advocating for democratic principles and human rights, we call on international participants and media outlets to engage critically and responsibly, to show solidarity with imprisoned journalists, and to use such platforms to promote meaningful dialogue on media freedom, both within Azerbaijan and globally.

ASIMKOM

(Coordinating Center for Azerbaijani Political Migrants)

Date: July 20, 2025