My personal blog, my thoughts.
The trial of seven journalists arrested in connection with the criminal case related to the publication “AbzasMedia” has commenced. The case is being heard at the Baku Serious Crimes Court, chaired by Rasim Sadikhov, with Novruz Karimov and Leyla Asgerova-Mammadova serving as members of the judges’ panel.
Read more ““AbzasMedia” Trial Has Begun”
Azerbaijan’s arrest of researcher and writer Bahruz Samadov has led to widespread outcry, and speculation about the implications for the prospect of peace or further war with Armenia.
Read more “When advocating for peace becomes treason — the arrest of Bahruz Samadov”
Russian sources have announced that a ban on VPN services will go into effect on March 1st. The ban encompasses advertisements and websites that provide information about how to bypass blocked resources in Russia and occupied territories of Ukraine. This is just the latest step in a years-long campaign to regulate access to information, isolate internet users within Russia, and increase surveillance capabilities by the authorities. Restricting VPNs could be seen as reducing one of the last tools Russian citizens have to access the outside world and hear opinions, news, and perspectives beyond the narrow scope of approved topics presented by state media.
Read more “The Digital Iron Curtain. Russia Prepares for a Total Ban on VPNs.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan (MFA) has contested the recent allegations made by the Committee against Torture (CPT) of the Council of Europe, calling them “groundless and unfair.”
Read more “Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry disputes Council of Europe torture allegations”
German prosecutors brought bribery and corruption charges against four people on Monday, including two former lawmakers suspected of receiving bribes from Azerbaijan in exchange for voting in Baku’s favor at the Council of Europe.
Read more “Two former German envoys in the ECHR have been charged with bribery from Azerbaijan”