The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has adopted a new resolution calling on Azerbaijan to release the detained Artsakh leadership and other Armenian prisoners of war held in Baku.

PACE expressed concerns over governance and human rights violations in several countries, including Azerbaijan and Georgia, Factor.am reports.

"Referring to its Resolution 2517 (2023), Recommendation 2260 (2023) on the humanitarian situation in Nagorno Karabakh, and Resolution 2560 (2024) on the implementation of obligations, the Assembly continues to monitor the situation of detained representatives of Nagorno Karabakh and all Armenian POWs held in Azerbaijan, reiterating its call for their release," the resolution states.

PACE voiced deep concern over the deterioration of democracy and the rule of law in Azerbaijan. It also condemned the persecution of opposition figures, civil activists, journalists, and government critics, urging Baku to immediately release all political prisoners and halt repression. The resolution highlighted the need to revise the Laws on Political Parties and Media in line with the Venice Commission’s recommendations.

Furthermore, PACE strongly condemned Azerbaijan’s refusal to cooperate with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) and urged Baku to restore that cooperation. The resolution also expressed regret over the absence of an election observation mission for the 2024 snap presidential and parliamentary elections, noting that international observers found the elections undemocratic, held under severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms.

PACE also harshly criticized Azerbaijan’s decision to declare 76 PACE members persona non grata on August 26, 2024, for supporting Resolution 2527 (2024), which sought to suspend Azerbaijan’s delegation to PACE. The resolution demanded an immediate reversal of this ban and called on Baku to engage in constructive dialogue with the Council of Europe.

Regarding Armenia, citing Resolution 2560 (2024), PACE praised Yerevan’s commitment to democratic development despite ongoing security challenges. It highlighted the inclusive and transparent legislative process for Electoral Code reforms, stating that the goal of democratic elections has largely been met. However, the Assembly regretted the continued political polarization and called on stakeholders to enhance dialogue between the parliamentary majority and opposition. It also urged Armenia to continue judicial reforms and strengthen media freedom and freedom of speech.