Freedom House's Call and Urging to Azerbaijan

The reputable human rights organization Freedom House has published a report addressing allegations of torture against Armenian POWs held in Azerbaijan, urging the country to allow the European Court of Human Rights to conduct an investigation.

"The fate of 200 Armenians held in custody in Azerbaijan remains unknown, reports of their humiliation and torture continue, while their return was agreed months ago under a ceasefire signed between the two countries," the report states.

“We are deeply concerned about reports of inhumane treatment and violations of human rights, including torture, against Armenian prisoners and detainees by Azerbaijan. We urge the Azerbaijani authorities to fully cooperate with the European Court of Human Rights in investigating the claims of inhumane treatment against Armenians, irrespective of the status of the detained individuals, and to ensure that those in custody receive the necessary protection in accordance with international human rights and humanitarian law, including protection from torture and inhumane treatment. As a country that has joined the European Convention on Human Rights, Azerbaijan is obligated to fully cooperate with the Court and provide all necessary information to ensure a transparent investigation,” reads the statement by Mark Behrendt, Director of Europe's and Eurasia Programs at Freedom House.