In a deeply worrying development that emphasizes the increasingly stricter joining of Azerbaijan, a young man named Igbal Abilov was sentenced to 18 years in prison – simply for online interviews with the Armenian academic.
The case caused criticism of human rights organizations and increased the alarm among those who defend peace in the Caucasus.
Young Azerbaijani sentenced to 18 years for online dialogue with Armenian scholarship
Abilov was found guilty of “high betrayal” and “cooperation with Armenian special services”. It turned out, however, that they both reportedly spoke via Skype, while Abilov lived in a third country and joined interviews that would look scientifically in nature.
Despite the peaceful tone of these interactions, the Azerbaijanian authorities interpreted exchange as a threat to national security rather than as a sign of potential reconciliation among long -term neighbors.
Who is Garnik Asatrian?
Garnik Asatrian is not a political worker. He teaches at the University of Jerevany and the Russian Armenian (Slavonice) University and is known for his academic work in linguistics and cultural studies. The display as a spy dangerously distorts its role and raises serious questions about Azerbaijan’s intention for prosecution.
It seems that the court claims that Abilov has made “instructions” from Armenian agents. According to observers, the verdict has been heavily leaning on speculation and private conversations without proveing any unlawful conduct.
Why does Azerbaijan do it?
This rough punishment is part of the wider trend in Azerbaijan, where the government is increasingly focused on journalists, activists and others who question the official narration. Contact with the Armenians – regardless of context – is often considered suspicious and Abilov’s conviction strengthens this cool attitude.
The decision was broadly convicted, especially those invested in the support of the dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
After the Nagorno-Karabakh war in 2020 and military actions 2023 Azerbaijan in the region, the relationship between the two countries remains tense. But instead of allowing space for mutual understanding and reconciliation, the Azerbaijani government seems to be closing the door of such possibilities.
Rather than encouraging young citizens to engage in education and peace dialogue, this decision sends a sharp warning: curiosity and openness can come at high costs.
The imprisonment of Abil affects not only one individual – there is a risk of silencing the whole generation that may want to ask difficult questions, seek knowledge and strive for peace.
(Tagstotranslate) Azerbaijan
