US lawmakers urge Blinken to address human rights in Azerbaijan before COP29

The call for action comes in light of reports from Human Rights Watch and Freedom Now, which document significant human rights abuses in Azerbaijan, including arbitrary detentions and the suppression of civil society. Lawmakers have highlighted the importance of using the upcoming climate talks as a platform to advocate for energy security in the region and to address the plight of political prisoners. Azerbaijan’s recent history, including allegations of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh, further complicates its role as host for the climate summit. Activists warn that without addressing these human rights issues, the voices of those most impacted by climate change may be marginalized in the negotiations, potentially undermining the effectiveness of the climate policies that emerge from COP29.

Background on Human Rights Concerns

Azerbaijan has been criticized for its treatment of activists and journalists, with recent arrests linked to laws that restrict the activities of non-governmental organizations. The government has been accused of using politically motivated charges to silence dissent, with many individuals facing severe penalties for their involvement in civil society efforts. Reports indicate that these tactics follow longstanding abusive practices aimed at curtailing freedom of expression and association.

The Role of COP29

As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, U.S. lawmakers view this as a critical opportunity to leverage international attention to advocate for human rights reforms. They argue that the climate negotiations should not only focus on environmental issues but also incorporate discussions on civil liberties and the importance of inclusive dialogue that represents all affected communities. The juxtaposition of climate action and human rights advocacy is seen as vital to ensuring that future policies are equitable and effective in addressing the climate crisis.