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COP29 Hosts Accused of Silencing Climate Defenders Amid Global Summit

As world leaders gather in Azerbaijan for COP29 to address the climate crisis, the Azerbaijani government faces mounting allegations of human rights abuses and repression of environmental activists. Human rights groups and activists accuse the regime of using the summit to bolster its image while silencing dissent, including detaining activists and political opponents.

Crackdown on Activists

The Climate Action Network, comprising nearly 2,000 climate groups, has raised concerns about Azerbaijan's crackdown on civil society. Amnesty International reported a surge in arrests since Azerbaijan was announced as the COP29 host. Political prisoners in the country now exceed 300, including journalists, environmentalists, and government critics.

Notable cases include:

  • Gubad Ibadoglu, a London School of Economics professor researching Azerbaijan's oil and gas sector, has been under house arrest for over a year on disputed charges.
  • Anar Mammadli, arrested shortly after co-founding an organization advocating for alignment with the Paris Agreement, now faces accusations of smuggling.
  • Nazim Beydemirli, sentenced to eight years in prison after protesting gold mining operations near his village, despite a lack of evidence.

Critics, including Azerbaijani journalist Emin Huseynov, accuse President Ilham Aliyev of using COP29 to "whitewash and greenwash" his government's oppressive record.

Host Nation Selection Criticized

This marks the third consecutive COP summit hosted by countries criticized for human rights violations, following the UAE and Egypt. Activists have called for reforming the selection process to prevent repressive regimes from hosting future conferences.

Environmental campaigners argue the UN must ensure host countries protect civil liberties. Andreas Sieber of 350.org suggested host agreements include clauses banning spyware against attendees and ensuring the safety of activists. However, the UNFCCC, which oversees the COP process, stated it cannot dictate host nations' internal policies.

Global Implications

Azerbaijan's reliance on oil and gas, which accounts for 60% of its budget, underpins tensions at COP29. While environmentalists call for a transition to renewables, President Aliyev labeled fossil fuels a "gift of God" and signaled plans to expand natural gas production.

Civil society groups stress their importance in driving progress. Tasneem Essop, director of Climate Action Network, highlighted their role in achieving landmark agreements like the Loss and Damage Fund, saying, "Our presence really does hold [governments'] feet to the fire."

International Response

Reactions from global leaders have been mixed. The European Parliament condemned Azerbaijan's repression, deeming it incompatible with hosting COP29. Yet some nations, including the UK, have been criticized for insufficient action.

With the climate crisis requiring urgent and collaborative efforts, many argue that safeguarding civil society and human rights is essential for meaningful progress at future summits.