Norwegian Helsinki Committee: Arrest of Female Journalists in Azerbaijan Reaches “Unprecedented Level”

The Norwegian Helsinki Committee has expressed serious concern over the detention of female journalists in Azerbaijan, stating that the scale of arrests marks an “unprecedented” development in the country’s post-independence history.

In a recent statement, the human rights organization said that for the first time since Azerbaijan gained independence, such a large number of women journalists are simultaneously held in detention. The Committee warned that holding female journalists in unsafe conditions poses significant risks to their health, adding that several detainees are reportedly suffering from serious medical conditions while allegedly not receiving adequate medical care in custody.

Particular attention was drawn to the case of Aynur Elgünash, editor-in-chief of Meydan TV, who, according to the statement, has undergone multiple surgeries and requires continuous medical supervision. The organization argued that her continued detention could endanger her life due to her health condition and physical disability.

The Committee also listed eight other female journalists reportedly linked to Abzas Media and Meydan TV—Sevinc Vagifgizi, Nargiz Absalamova, Elnara Gasimova, Aytaj Ahmadova, Aysel Umudova, Khayala Agayeva, Fatima Movlamli, and Ulviyya Ali—who have been detained on charges of money laundering. It called for their immediate release, describing the arrests as part of a broader pattern of pressure on independent media.

Azerbaijani authorities, however, maintain that the arrests are unrelated to journalistic activity. Officials argue that the individuals are being prosecuted under specific criminal investigations and deny that the cases are politically motivated.

Since November 2023, more than 20 media workers associated with outlets such as Abzas Media, Toplum TV, and Meydan TV have been arrested on various criminal charges. Those detained reject the allegations, insisting that their prosecution is linked to their professional activities and constitutes politically driven persecution.

Local human rights groups estimate that more than 300 individuals are currently recognized as political prisoners in Azerbaijan. International rights organizations continue to call on the government to halt pressure on independent media and civil society, while Baku rejects claims of systemic political repression, insisting that the judiciary operates independently and within the framework of national law.