Resolution on the case of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, imprisoned in Azerbaijan

2023/2832(RSP)

The European Parliament adopted by 539 votes to 6, with 24 abstentions, a resolution on the case of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, imprisoned in Azerbaijan.

The text adopted in plenary was tabled by the EPP, S&D, Renew, Greens/EFA, ECR, The Left groups and Members.

Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, a renowned political economist and prominent opposition figure, was brutally attacked and arbitrarily detained on 23 July 2023 and remains in prison on dubious charges, having limited contact with his family and lawyer and reportedly being subjected to inhumane treatment. He faces a prison sentence of up to 12 years on fabricated charges and suffers from serious health conditions.

Parliament demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Gubad Ibadoghlu insisting that his immediate access to adequate medical treatment and medication be ensured. It called for an independent investigation into the reported ill-treatment of Gubad Ibadoghlu and the violations of his due process rights.

The Azerbaijani authorities are called on to:

- release all political prisoners, independent journalists and human rights defenders, drop all politically motivated charges against them and stop extraterritorial repression.

- protect its citizens’ human rights and ensure a free and safe environment for the peaceful exercise of the rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association.

Parliament called on the VP/HR, the EEAS and the Member States to condemn the serious human rights violations and breaches of democracy in Azerbaijan, and to raise cases such as Gubad Ibadoghlu’s in all bilateral meetings and during negotiations for a future partnership agreement, the signing of which should be conditional on the release of all political prisoners. Parliament also called for EU sanctions under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime on Azerbaijani officials who have committed serious human rights violations.