Azerbaijan Hosts Congress Against French Colonialism

Azerbaijan recently hosted the “First Congress of Independence Movements from French-Colonised Territories” on July 17-18, signaling rising diplomatic tensions with France. The event showcased Azerbaijan's anti-colonial rhetoric and its strategic alliances with illiberal nations, reflecting a notable shift in its foreign policy. Azerbaijani officials announced plans for an exhibition on colonialism at the upcoming COP29 in Baku, emphasizing the human rights violations perpetrated by “French pioneers of democracy” in colonized regions. The backdrop to this congress includes a controversial arms deal between France and Armenia, Azerbaijan's neighbor, which has heightened tensions. Following the June 17 contract for CAESAR self-propelled howitzers, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused France of undermining stability in the South Caucasus by supporting separatist movements. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron defended the arms supply to Armenia, asserting it was intended to prevent conflict, while highlighting Azerbaijan's military advancements over the past decade. As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, it has intensified its crackdown on civil society, with Freedom House rating the country as “not free” in its 2024 Global Freedom Index. In its pursuit of becoming a significant trade partner with the West, Azerbaijan is forging alliances with other illiberal countries, particularly through the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), which aims to protect regional interests from external influences. President Aliyev has expressed ambitions for the OTS to evolve into a powerful global entity, reinforcing Azerbaijan's commitment to strengthening ties with member nations and solidifying its position in the region.