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Azerbaijan: Statement by the Minister for Europe

Minister for Europe disappointed by sentencing of Ganja-based NGO leader Hasan Huseynli

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

I note with great disappointment the sentencing of Ganja-based NGO leader Hasan Huseynli to six years on hooliganism related charges.

In recent years the British Embassy Baku has worked closely with Mr Huseynli on projects designed to promote social entrepreneurship and strengthen female participation in civil society. Mr Huseynli joins a growing number of civil society activists sentenced to lengthy prison terms.

I again call on Azerbaijan to address concerns felt by many about the increasingly worrying trend of detentions and prison sentences which appear to be politically motivated.

Published 17 July 2014