Fact Check: Azerbaijan sentences seven journalists to up to nine years in prison.

Fact Check: Azerbaijan sentences seven journalists to up to nine years in prison

What We Know

On June 20, 2025, a court in Azerbaijan sentenced seven journalists to prison terms ranging from seven and a half to nine years. This included Farid Mehralizada, a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), and six journalists from Abzas Media, an independent investigative outlet. The sentences were handed down after the journalists were convicted on multiple charges, which included "currency smuggling," "money laundering," and "tax evasion" (AP News) [source-1]. The verdict has been widely condemned by international rights organizations, which argue that the charges are politically motivated and aimed at silencing independent journalism in Azerbaijan (Amnesty International) [source-5].

Analysis

The evidence surrounding the sentencing of these journalists strongly supports the claim that they were sentenced to prison terms of up to nine years. Reports confirm that the sentences were delivered by the Baku Grave Crimes Court, with the following breakdown: Farid Mehralizada and three others received nine-year sentences, while two journalists were sentenced to eight years, and one to seven and a half years (Reuters) [source-2].

Critics of the trial, including Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders, have labeled the proceedings as a "sham" and indicative of a broader crackdown on media freedom in Azerbaijan. They argue that the charges against the journalists are fabricated and serve as retaliation for their investigative work, which often exposes corruption linked to the Azerbaijani government (OCCRP) [source-4]. The international community has been urged to respond strongly to these actions, as they reflect a systematic effort to suppress dissent and independent journalism in the country (Amnesty International) [source-5].

The credibility of the sources reporting on this event is generally high. The Associated Press and Reuters are established news organizations known for their journalistic integrity. Amnesty International is a reputable human rights organization that monitors and reports on issues of freedom of expression globally. However, it is important to note that some reports may carry a bias against the Azerbaijani government due to the nature of the subject matter.

Conclusion

The claim that "Azerbaijan sentences seven journalists to up to nine years in prison" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the sentences were indeed issued, and the context surrounding the case suggests that these actions are part of a larger pattern of repression against independent media in Azerbaijan.

Fact Check: Azerbaijan sentences seven journalists to up to nine years in prison.