British MPs urge release of detained academic in Azerbaijan

A group of British Members of Parliament (MPs) has urged the Azerbaijani government to release Gubad Ibadoghlu, an academic from the London School of Economics and Political Science, who was detained for his critical writings on the country's environmental policies. Ibadoghlu, a vocal critic of Azerbaijan's ruling elite, is currently imprisoned in Baku as the nation prepares to host the Cop29 Climate Summit in November. Concerns for his well-being have escalated following reports that his pre-trial process has been suspended indefinitely. In a letter addressed to Azerbaijani authorities, the MPs called for Ibadoghlu's unconditional release, emphasizing the need for him to receive medical treatment abroad and to be reunited with his family. The letter highlighted the importance of Azerbaijan demonstrating a commitment to peace during the upcoming climate conference by freeing Ibadoghlu and dropping all charges against him. The academic's family has expressed deep concern for his father's health, which has deteriorated during Ibadoghlu's detention, exacerbated by his father's diabetes and hypertension. Ibadoghlu has previously voiced his worries about his father's medical care, stating that the politically motivated detention has caused significant distress for his family. The European Court of Human Rights has also intervened, ordering Azerbaijan to take urgent measures to safeguard Ibadoghlu's health. Observers note a troubling trend of arrests targeting government critics in Azerbaijan, raising alarms about the country's human rights practices. Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Green Party, emphasized the need for the UK government to confront authoritarian abuses of power globally, particularly in light of Azerbaijan's treatment of dissenters. The situation underscores the broader implications of political repression in the region and the urgent need for international advocacy.