Azerbaijan - July 2026

On 28 July 2026, the Baku Grave Crimes Court sentenced nine journalists and media workers affiliated with independent outlet Toplum TV and its partner organizations to prison terms of between 12 and 15 years. The sentences are the harshest since the current crackdown on independent media, which has ensnared dozens of journalists, bloggers, and activists, began in 2023. The charges were related to currency smuggling and other financial crimes and are widely held to be politically motivated retaliation for critical reporting. Most major media outlets are already under state influence or face significant restrictions. 

Sources: Human Rights Watch ,Associated Press, OC Media