Aliyev again named among world’s leading press freedom predators

PARIS — Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has again included Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in its annual list of the world’s leading threats to press freedom, citing systematic repression of independent journalism in Azerbaijan.

Published November 2 to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the organization’s 2026 report identifies 33 individuals and organizations accused of undermining independent media.

Aliyev appears in the political category alongside other heads of state accused of using government power to restrict access to independent information.

RSF describes Azerbaijan as a country where critical journalism has been systematically suppressed, independent news organizations have been closed or forced into exile, and media censorship has become institutionalized.

According to the organization, 27 media professionals are currently detained in Azerbaijan.

The report highlights increasingly severe prison sentences, including terms of up to 14 years imposed on five Toplum TV staff members in July 2026.

RSF also cites legislative restrictions, expanded government control over broadcasting, the blocking of independent websites and intimidation of journalists living abroad.

Azerbaijan ranks 171st out of 180 countries in the organization’s 2026 World Press Freedom Index.

The list also includes Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, among other political leaders and institutions accused of restricting journalism.

The findings reinforce longstanding international concerns about Azerbaijan’s human rights record and the treatment of independent media.

They come as Baku continues negotiating the finalization of a peace agreement with Armenia, while questions surrounding political freedoms, accountability and fundamental rights remain unresolved.