French artist sentenced in Baku for graffiti amid tensions with France

On September 10, 2023, a court in Baku sentenced French street artist Théo Clerc to three years in prison for graffiti he created in the metro system on March 30. Clerc was part of a group of three international artists, including a New Zealander and an Australian, who faced similar charges. While Clerc received a prison sentence, his companions were fined and later banned from leaving Azerbaijan. This disparity in sentencing has raised concerns about the influence of nationality on legal outcomes in Azerbaijan. The artists had arrived in Azerbaijan on March 25 as part of an international street art tour, creating non-political graffiti on separate trains. They were arrested at Baku airport on March 31 while attempting to leave the country. Their Azerbaijani lawyer claimed that the legal basis for Clerc's imprisonment was flawed, as the relevant criminal code did not stipulate a prison sentence for such offenses. Clerc's detention has drawn attention to the deteriorating diplomatic relations between France and Azerbaijan, particularly due to France's support for Armenia. The French Foreign Ministry has issued warnings regarding the situation, highlighting the potential risks for French nationals in Azerbaijan. Clerc's family expressed concern for his well-being during his imprisonment, noting significant changes in his mental state. As the situation unfolds, Clerc's friends are expected to be deported, leaving him isolated in prison. This case underscores the complexities of international relations and the potential consequences for individuals caught in the crossfire of diplomatic tensions.