Amnesty urges release of jailed Azerbaijani journalists amid health concerns

(Horizon Weekly) – Amnesty International has launched an urgent action campaign calling on Azerbaijani authorities to release 12 journalists linked to Meydan TV and affiliated media outlets, warning that at least three of them are being denied critical medical care and that their health is rapidly deteriorating. The organization says the journalists were arbitrarily detained on politically motivated charges in retaliation for their reporting and are being held under conditions that may amount to ill-treatment.

In a model letter addressed to President Ilham Aliyev, Amnesty urges an immediate end to what it describes as unfounded prosecutions and calls for proper medical treatment for detainees whose health is at risk. The organization highlights the cases of Shamshad Agha, who suffers from a gastric ulcer, Aynur Elgunash, who requires physiotherapy following surgery, and Ulviyya Guliyeva, who needs regular injections for a chronic condition.

According to Amnesty, the journalists have reported overcrowded cells, psychological pressure, and instances of sexual harassment and physical abuse. The group says allegations of ill-treatment, including threats and assaults, have not been effectively investigated by authorities.

The 12 journalists were detained between December 2024 and August 2025 and charged under financial and “smuggling” provisions that human rights groups say are frequently used to silence independent media. Amnesty argues that restrictive funding regulations make legal compliance nearly impossible for critical outlets, effectively criminalizing independent journalism.

Since late 2023, nearly 30 journalists and media workers have been detained in Azerbaijan as part of a broader crackdown on dissent, Amnesty reports. The organization is urging supporters worldwide to write to Azerbaijani authorities by May 31, 2026, to demand the journalists’ release and access to medical care.