Azerbaijan Denies Medical Care to Imprisoned Journalist Aytaj Ahmadova
IPI condemns the denial of adequate medical care to the detained journalist.
1Violation Against Journalist
Aytaj Ahmadova, a reporter for the independent media outlet Meydan TV, is suffering from serious respiratory problems and requires urgent surgery. However, Azerbaijani authorities are denying her adequate medical care. Ahmadova has been held in pretrial detention at Kurdakhani Prison since December 2024. This situation is seen as a sign of increasing repression against journalists in the country.
2Wave of Arrests
Ahmadova was detained alongside five Meydan TV colleagues during a new wave of repression targeting independent media outlets. The crackdown began shortly after Azerbaijan hosted the COP29 climate summit. In recent months, journalists from Abzas Media, Meydan TV, and Toplum TV have been arrested or detained. This highlights the severe restrictions on press freedom in Azerbaijan.
3International Outcry
The International Press Institute (IPI) has called on Azerbaijani authorities to provide adequate medical care to Ahmadova and other imprisoned journalists. IPI emphasized that this situation violates international human rights standards. Additionally, IPI demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all unjustly jailed journalists and media workers.
4Journalism in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is known for its repression against journalists. According to the Council of Europe Platform for the Safety of Journalists, 39 journalists remain behind bars in the country. This figure underscores Azerbaijan's poor record on press freedom. Independent media outlets like Meydan TV frequently face state pressure, and their staff are often arrested.
5Aytaj Ahmadova's Condition
Aytaj Ahmadova is a journalist who received the 2026 IPI Free Media Pioneer award. Her health is deteriorating, and she urgently needs medical intervention. However, authorities have taken no steps to address her condition. Ahmadova's case is seen as an example of human rights violations against journalists in Azerbaijan.
6Post-COP29 Crackdown
After hosting the COP29 climate summit, Azerbaijan intensified its crackdown on independent media. Authorities pressured media outlets to avoid negative coverage during the summit. Once the summit ended, the repression escalated, leading to the arrest of several journalists. This situation damages Azerbaijan's international reputation.
7Meydan TV's Struggle
Meydan TV is one of Azerbaijan's most important independent media outlets. It is known for its critical reporting on government policies. However, this has made the outlet a frequent target. Its staff face constant risks of arrest and detention. Despite this, Meydan TV continues to produce independent journalism.
8Fight for Press Freedom
Press freedom in Azerbaijan is under serious threat. Journalists face violations such as arrest, detention, and denial of medical care. The international community must take stronger action on this issue. Ahmadova's case shows how risky journalism is in Azerbaijan. Global efforts are needed to protect press freedom.
Original article: linkedin.com — Azerbaycan'da Gazeteci Aytaj Ahmadova'ya Tıbbi Yardım Engellendi