Friday Wrap-up: BRICS, ECHR investigations and journalist barred from flying

Published: 19 July 2024 16:40

This week saw Azerbaijan’s aspirations to join the BRICS, the ECHR investigating complaints from Azerbaijan regarding COVID-19 restrictions, and an Azerbaijani journalist barred from flying to Turkey from Tbilisi.

Azerbaijan expresses interest in joining the BRICS economic block

Azerbaijan has expressed interest in joining BRICS, as announced by Sahiba Gafarova, Speaker of the Milli Majlis, during the 10th Parliamentary Forum of BRICS countries. Gafarova emphasized the importance of fair international relations based on mutual respect and true multilateralism, aligning Azerbaijan’s foreign policy with BRICS’ principles of dialogue, cooperation, and solidarity.

BRICS, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is known for its rapidly developing economies and significant global economic impact. Economist Rovshan Agayev noted that Azerbaijan’s participation could enhance its export potential by leveraging the large markets of India, China, and Brazil. However, he cautioned that without strong export capabilities, Azerbaijan might not benefit significantly from BRICS membership.

Agayev further argued that BRICS countries have recently adopted more authoritarian economic policies, which could hinder Azerbaijan’s growth without necessary economic reforms. He stressed that Azerbaijan’s economy, unlike those of larger BRICS members, would struggle under such conditions and might lose access to more liberal and progressive markets like Europe. Therefore, he advised careful consideration before Azerbaijan decides to join BRICS.

ECHR investigates Azerbaijani complaints over COVID-19 restrictions and rights violations

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has begun investigating complaints from Azerbaijan regarding COVID-19 restrictions. Farrukh Aliyev, one of the complainants, was placed under administrative arrest for a month in 2020 for violating quarantine rules, and his mobile phones were seized without an official warrant. Aliyev argued at the ECtHR that the national courts did not justify their decisions, denied him free legal assistance, and violated his right to privacy by confiscating his phones.

Another case under investigation involves social activist Bakhtiyar Hajiyev, who was arrested at the end of 2022. Hajiyev’s home, and another applicant called Sh. Alikhanova’s home, were searched and items were seized in connection with his case. Both Hajiyev and Alikhanova claimed that these searches and seizures were illegal. Additionally, Hajiyev complained about the unlawful interference with his right to freedom and immunity.

These cases highlight concerns over the legality and justification of actions taken by Azerbaijani authorities during the pandemic, particularly regarding arrests, lack of legal assistance, and privacy violations.

Azerbaijani journalist barred from flying to Turkey from Tbilisi under passport dispute

Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Sadigov was prevented from flying from Tbilisi Airport to Turkey, with border police claiming his passport was not recognized in their system and that he could only travel to Azerbaijan. Sadigov’s wife, Sevinj Sadighova, confirmed the incident, stating that no clear reason was given and they were advised to seek information from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Sevinj Sadighova alleged that the action was ordered by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev due to Sadigov’s critical reporting on the Azerbaijani government. She expressed concern that returning to Azerbaijan would lead to Sadigov’s arrest, as he has been vocal about corruption and citizen grievances. The family, living in Tbilisi since December for safety reasons, now feels insecure following this incident.

The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs has not commented on the matter, leaving the reasons behind the travel restriction unclear. Sadigov’s wife plans to consult a lawyer and address the issue with the ministry, highlighting the stress and fear experienced by their family during the airport incident.