Azerbaijan has intensified its crackdown on media, arresting several journalists, including staff from the independent Meydan TV, which has been targeted for its critical reporting. These arrests, including charges of smuggling foreign currency, are widely seen as retaliation for the journalists’ work on human rights and government corruption. International organizations like Reporters Without Borders and U.S. officials have condemned the actions. Meydan TV has faced continuous pressure, including website blocks and harassment. The government defends the arrests, claiming legal grounds. At the same time, local human rights groups highlight the broader repression of free speech and press freedom in the country.
- Sovereign LORD, we pray for Your divine protection over all the journalists in Azerbaijan who stand firm for the truth despite repression. May their work change the nation’s political environment (The Holy Bible, Psalm 43:1).
- Father GOD, we pray for justice and unconditional release for all the imprisoned journalists in Azerbaijan. We pray for more press freedom and freedom of expression in the country (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 1:17).
News Source: Voice of America
