On unlawful detention and sham trials of Armenian hostages, including high-ranking political representatives from Nagorno-Karabakh, by Azerbaijan
B-10-2025-0181
on behalf of the Renew Group · Rapporteur: Nathalie Loiseau, Petras Auštrevičius, Bernard Guetta, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, MarieAgnes StrackZimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
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The resolution condemns Azerbaijan's sham trials of 23 Armenian hostages, including former Nagorno-Karabakh leaders, and calls for their immediate release and fair treatment.¶¶ It demands access to independent doctors and lawyers, an investigation into ill-treatment, and that EU embassies observe the trials and visit prisoners.¶¶ It calls for EU sanctions on Azerbaijani officials, suspension of the energy memorandum and visa facilitation, and an ICC referral.¶¶¶
Key points
- Calls on Azerbaijan to immediately and unconditionally release all Armenian political prisoners and drop unsubstantiated charges.¶
- Condemns sham trials and systematic violations of fundamental rights, demanding respect for fair trial standards and access to independent doctors and lawyers.¶
- Expects an independent investigation into allegations of ill-treatment of Armenian hostages in prison.
- Concerned about Azerbaijan's order to close the Baku office of the International Committee of the Red Cross, calls on authorities to review their position.¶
- Calls on EU and Member State embassies to observe trials and regularly visit all Armenian hostages; asks HR/VP to visit prisoners if in Baku.¶
- Reiterates call for EU sanctions under the EU Magnitsky Act on Azerbaijani leaders and officials responsible for unlawful detention and sham trials.¶
- Encourages Member States to consider an ICC referral.
- Reiterates call to suspend the 2022 EU-Azerbaijan memorandum of understanding on strategic partnership in energy.¶
- Calls for suspension of visa facilitation agreement and visa-free travel for diplomatic passport holders until all hostages are released and human rights improve.¶