Kaine & Colleagues Re-Issue Bipartisan Call for Immediate Release of Renowned Economist Gubad Ibadoghlu

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined their colleagues, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Roger Wicker (R-MI) in releasing the following statement on the anniversary of the arrest of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu:

“Two years ago this week, Azerbaijani authorities arbitrarily detained internationally renowned economist, anti-corruption expert, and academic Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu. Dr. Ibadoghlu, who has held academic positions at leading American universities, was falsely charged with fabricating foreign currency and possessing extremist materials. These allegations are widely regarded as politically motivated and baseless. Dr. Ibadoghlu has consistently demonstrated a staunch and unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, and human rights – both in his homeland and in the United States, where he has lived and worked.

“Azerbaijani authorities have still not brought Dr. Ibadoghlu to trial and have indefinitely suspended his pre-trial investigation, leaving him in what seems to be indefinite detention without the possibility of release. Dr. Ibadoghlu has spent 274 days in inhumane conditions, subjected to degrading treatment that has severely deteriorated his health and violated his fundamental rights. He is currently suffering from a life-threatening health condition and has been denied access to the specialized medical treatment he needs, putting his life in even graver danger. Outside the prison walls, Dr. Ibadoghlu’s family is facing growing threats and acts of retaliation.

“We strongly condemn the Azerbaijani government’s continued persecution of Dr. Ibadoghlu and urge the authorities to release him – and all other political prisoners – immediately and unconditionally. His case is an opportunity for the Azerbaijani government to demonstrate credibility and goodwill. Taking the right action now could generate the kind of international support for which any country seeking to be a global leader should strive.”

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