Statement from the Civil Society Members of the OGP Steering Committee in Support of Gubad Ibadoghlu

Civil Society members of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Steering Committee met with representatives of Azerbaijani civil society during the OGP Global Summit to express our ongoing solidarity with them in relation to the issues concerning human rights and democracy in Azerbaijan. Despite the permanent suspension of Azerbaijan from OGP in 2023, we will continue to support civil society champions on the ground and call on the government to uphold the principles of openness – transparency, public accountability and public participation – a prerequisite for any country that wishes to be a member of OGP.

The undersigned Civil Society members of the OGP Steering Committee express their deep concern for the arrest of economist and civil activist Gubad Ibadoghlu in Azerbaijan. Dr. Ibadoghlu has been a relentless champion of open government and a key, active stakeholder in Azerbaijan’s OGP journey.

We are deeply disturbed by the reports we heard of the violent nature of his arrest, the harsh conditions of his detention, and the denial of access to medical services reported by his family in light of his rapidly deteriorating health. We urge the Azerbaijan authorities to uphold and respect the rights of civil society actors and the principles of freedom of expression and association.

We urgently call for his release, for due process to be followed, in accordance with international best practice, and for measures to ensure his health and safety.

We stand in solidarity with Dr. Ibadoughlu and others like him who promote open government values at great personal risk.

In solidarity,
Members of the OGP Civil Society Steering Committee

Signatories:

Natalia Carfi
Anabel Cruz
Blair Glencorse
Lucy McTernan
Barbara Schreiner
Juan Carlos Fernandez Andrade
Zukiswa Kota