Azerbaijani economist, academic, and Chair of the Public Initiatives Center (PIC), Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, was granted house arrest, marking a significant yet partial step forward in his case. While this decision enables him to access urgent medical treatment, Dr. Ibadoghlu remains under conditional detention and confined to Baku.
Dr. Ibadoghlu was violently detained on July 23, 2023, on fabricated and politically motivated charges widely viewed as an attempt to silence his peaceful criticism of the Azerbaijani government. His health deteriorated severely in custody, and reports indicate that he was denied necessary medical care for serious conditions. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reportedly been denied permission to visit him, heightening concerns about his treatment and well-being.
His case reflects a broader pattern of repression against civil society in Azerbaijan, where hundreds of activists, journalists, and political opponents remain imprisoned on politically driven or unjust charges.
Dr. Ibadoghlu’s move to house arrest underscores the effect of sustained international advocacy and diplomatic pressure on Azerbaijani authorities. However, as he continues to face restrictions on his freedom, continued global attention and action are essential to secure his unconditional release and to end the systematic persecution of civil society in Azerbaijan.
For more information, please visit: freegubad.com