On December 4, the ambassadors of the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Switzerland to Azerbaijan urged the government to uphold human rights during a reception marking International Human Rights Day.

Peter Michalko, the European Union Ambassador to Azerbaijan, emphasized the significance of this year’s UN campaign, "Our Rights, Our Future, Now," while drawing attention to Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29. He expressed disappointment that, despite expectations for progress in human rights, numerous journalists, activists, and civil society members remain imprisoned. Michalko specifically mentioned individuals such as Anar Mammadli, Imran Aliyev, and Bahruz Samadov as emblematic of those detained. He also criticized the continued detention of media figures like Nargiz Absalamova and Mushfig Jabbarov and highlighted the recent arrest of Rufat Safarov, comparing it to the detention of Bakhtiyar Hajiyev two years ago. Michalko reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to monitoring these cases and raising concerns with Azerbaijani authorities.

British Ambassador Fergus Auld echoed similar concerns, noting a deterioration in Azerbaijan’s human rights situation over the past year. He lamented the imprisonment of figures like Alasgar Mammadli and criticized prolonged investigations and trials against human rights defenders. While welcoming the release of economist Gubad Ibadoglu to house arrest, Auld noted ongoing issues with medical care and due process. He also criticized anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and actions, emphasizing the UK’s support for combating violence and discrimination. Auld further highlighted the UK's financial and technical contributions to humanitarian mine action and initiatives promoting inclusion.

Swiss Ambassador Thomas Stahlen focused on the issue of freedom of expression, underscoring Switzerland's commitment to human rights through its upcoming membership in the Human Rights Council. He noted the worsening conditions for freedom of speech in Azerbaijan, naming imprisoned journalists and activists such as Ulvi Hasanli and Sevinj Vagifqizi. Stahlen condemned the silencing of media as harmful to societal development and emphasized Switzerland’s priorities, including the abolition of the death penalty, the protection of minorities, and freedom of expression.

Mark Libby, the US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, highlighted the universal principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the need to actively defend them. Praising the courage of Azerbaijani activists, he specifically mentioned Bakhtiyar Hajiyev and Tofig Yagublu, calling on the government to fulfill its international obligations by releasing those unjustly detained. Libby reflected on progress achieved since the adoption of the Declaration in 1948 but emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance in defending human rights.

In response, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry dismissed the ambassadors' statements as interference in the country’s judiciary and an attempt to undermine its independence. The ministry insisted that no one in Azerbaijan is imprisoned for political or professional reasons, asserting that detainees face charges related to criminal activities.