The International Coalition for Democratic Renewal (ICDR) and the Forum 2000 Foundation have expressed concern about the worsening human rights situation in Azerbaijan.

In a joint statement issued in relation to the opening of the UN Climate Conference – COP29, both organizations note that the Azerbaijani government has escalated its repression against lawyers, journalists, activists, and human rights defenders to a level that could paralyze civil society.

"There are over 300 political prisoners in the country, facing severe conditions, mistreatment, and even violence. The legal and judicial system lacks the independence necessary to ease the pressures on civil society. Among those sufferings are Anar Mammadli, Bahruz Samadov, Akif Gurbanov, and Gubad Ibadoglu, along with members of the International Coalition for Democratic Renewal and the Forum 2000 network."

Both the foundation and the coalition have declared that despite criticism from the Council of Europe and the UN, the Azerbaijani government continues to ignore its obligations under international law.

While continuing its repression against the opposition, the government is using high-level international events like COP29 to showcase a progressive image.

The statement calls on the Azerbaijani government to release political prisoners, align laws targeting civil society, media, and non-governmental organizations with international standards, fully implement the European Court's decision on the Mammadli case and related resolutions, provide for an independent international working group to investigate criminal cases, and cooperate with the UN and the Council of Europe’s monitoring mechanisms to prevent torture.

International organizations are urged to participate in the trials of those imprisoned for political reasons and support their families.

The appeal to the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers and the Parliamentary Assembly recommends not to confirm the Azerbaijani delegation’s credentials. It concludes by demanding that the delegations of countries participating in COP29 make a public call for the Azerbaijani government to release political prisoners.

It is important to note that the International Coalition for Democratic Renewal is a global initiative composed of intellectuals, activists, and politicians who research the expansion of authoritarian regimes' power and influence, and the internal weakening of democratic systems. The Forum 2000 Foundation, which continues the legacy of Václav Havel, promotes democratic values, respect for human rights, the development of civil society, and the advocacy of religious, cultural, and ethnic tolerance.