Unfortunately, the report tells a different story. Instead of the Council of Europe influencing Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan challenges the very integrity and authority of the organization. By failing to implement the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, organize free and fair elections, and allow courts, media, and civil society organizations to function independently, Azerbaijan neglects the rights of its own citizens. However, it also undermines the Council of Europe, which has some of the most advanced regional human rights systems in the world.
We hope the report will encourage coordinated efforts by both the Council of Europe Member States and the Council of Europe itself to effectively and jointly address this fragile situation. Ultimately, Azerbaijan must meet membership requirements or eventually lose recognition as a member.
The report provides recommendations for further actions by the Council of Europe, its Member States, and the European Union.