The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for the unconditional release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan and condemning what it describes as unlawful detentions and sham trials against former officials and civilians from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). The resolution, passed on March 13 with 523 votes in favor, 3 against, and 84 abstentions, highlights human rights concerns and urges strong EU action in response.
The resolution demands the immediate release and safe return of all Armenian prisoners, including high-ranking officials from Artsakh. It also welcomes the statement by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, who has expressed concern about the treatment of detainees.
Azerbaijan is accused of holding unfair trials against detained individuals, with the resolution strongly condemning these proceedings as violating due process. Lawmakers argue that the charges against detainees are fabricated, and the trials lack transparency, raising concerns about political motivations behind the arrests.
The European Parliament calls on Azerbaijan to uphold its international commitments by ensuring humane treatment for prisoners. This includes access to medical care, sufficient food and water, and protection from torture and ill-treatment. The resolution stresses that failing to meet these obligations constitutes a serious breach of human rights.
A key aspect of the resolution is its demand for consequences against Azerbaijani officials involved in these detentions. It calls for a ban on entry to EU institutions for those responsible, including judges Zeynal Agayev, Jamal Ramazanov, Anar Rzayev, and prosecutors handling these cases.
In response to broader allegations of human rights abuses, the resolution urges the International Criminal Court to investigate reports of forced displacement, persecution, and ethnic cleansing of Armenians from Artsakh. This step is aimed at holding those accountable for any crimes committed against the region’s Armenian population.
The resolution raises concerns about Azerbaijan’s decision to shut down UN agencies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) office in Baku. The ICRC was the only international organization with access to the detained Armenian officials, and its closure limits humanitarian oversight, increasing concerns about the prisoners’ welfare.
Beyond the immediate issue of prisoners, the European Parliament also condemns the broader repression of civil society and independent media in Azerbaijan. Lawmakers argue that crackdowns on journalists, activists, and opposition voices further highlight the country’s deteriorating human rights record.
As part of its response, the resolution reiterates a call to suspend the EU’s strategic energy partnership with Azerbaijan. Lawmakers demand clear human rights benchmarks for future cooperation, including the release of all political prisoners and respect for internationally recognized borders. The resolution suggests that Azerbaijan’s failure to uphold democratic values should impact its economic and diplomatic ties with the EU.
Additionally, the resolution criticizes Azerbaijan for failing to ratify key International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions related to forced labor, occupational safety, and social security. By pointing out these shortcomings, the European Parliament highlights broader concerns about workers’ rights and labor protections in the country.
The resolution has been forwarded to the European Council, the European Commission, the Vice-President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs, EU member states, and the Azerbaijani government. This step increases international pressure on Azerbaijan to address human rights concerns and respond to the EU’s demands.
