597 Scenes
PH: DR/COP 29: let’s protect journalists in Azerbaijan
The 29th United Nations climate change conference opens in Baku, Azerbaijan, an extractive country known for its violent attack on free and independent media.
Over the past year, authorities have arrested around 15 journalists because of their work. Among the thirteen information professionals currently in custody, Nargiz Absalamova was investigating topics related to the environment. Detained since November 30, 2023 on false charges of “foreign currency smuggling”, she worked for Abzas Media, one of the few independent media outlets still operating in Azerbaijan. To date, Nargiz Absalamova, four of her colleagues at Abzas Media and eight other independent media professionals face ill-treatment or degrading conditions in prison.
An example in the protection of journalism, especially environmental journalism, should be necessary to host the United Nations climate conference. How can we accept that an oil and gas country that throws its independent journalists in prison is the host of negotiations that will shape the global climate?
RSF calls on the international community to demand that the Azerbaijani authorities release jailed journalists, stop flagrant violations of press freedom and finally promise to protect independent journalism.
It is thanks to you that Reporters Without Borders can carry out this work of investigation and questioning of public authorities to demand the release of journalists who are only doing their job. Thank you for your generosity. (RSF)
1. As the 29th United Nations climate change conference begins in Azerbaijan, a country known for its violent attacks on free and independent media, how do you think the host country’s attitude towards media and press freedom will impact the conference’s outcome?
2. The detention of journalist Nargiz Absalamova highlights the importance of environmental journalism in raising awareness about crucial issues like climate change. In your opinion, what are some of the challenges that environmental journalists face in practicing their profession, especially in countries like Azerbaijan?
3. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called for the release of jailed journalists, an end to human rights violations, and a commitment to protecting independent journalism. What steps do you think need to be taken by the international community to ensure that countries hosting high-profile events like the UN climate conference uphold these values?
4. As an organization that advocates for press freedom worldwide, what role do you see RSF playing in protecting environmental reporters in countries like Azerbaijan? How can they work with local media outlets and journalists to promote change?
5. The ongoing persecution of journalists in Azerbaijan raises concerns about the government’s commitment to open dialogue and transparency regarding environmental issues. What strategies can civil society groups, media outlets, and the international community use to hold governments accountable for their actions and promote press freedom in countries like Azerbaijan?
