On the 22nd of April 2024, Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu’s was granted house arrest, marking a significant step forward in his case. While this development allows him to receive essential medical care, it’s important to note that he remains conditionally imprisoned and confined to Baku.
As a brief background, Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu was violently detained on 23rd July 2023 under fabricated charges, seemingly orchestrated to silence his peaceful criticism of the Azerbaijani government. His health deteriorated rapidly while in detention, and his family reported that he was denied essential medical treatment for serious conditions. Regrettably, the International Committee of the Red Cross has been denied permission to visit him, further exacerbating concerns for his well-being.
Gubad’s detention takes place against a backdrop of repression of civil society in Azerbaijan where there are hundreds of people detained on unfair charges.
In light of recent developments, it’s evident that our collective efforts have contributed to international pressure on Azerbaijani authorities. However, our work is far from over. We must continue advocating for Dr. Ibadoghlu’s unconditional release and for an end to harassment of civil society in Azerbaijan.