**Azerbaijani Journalist Freed on Bail in Georgia**
After months of uncertainty, Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Sadygov has been released on bail in Georgia. On April 16, the Tbilisi City Court granted a prosecutor’s request to replace his extradition detention with bail, according to the Social Justice Center (SJC), a human rights watchdog representing Sadygov.
**The Long Road to Freedom**
Sadygov’s release comes after a long and complex process. He was first arrested in Azerbaijan in 2020 on extortion charges and sentenced to seven years in prison. However, he was released after about two years under an amnesty, following a 242-day hunger strike while in prison.
**Hunger Strike and Extradition**
Sadygov’s troubles didn’t end there. In December 2023, he fled to Georgia, where he began living. However, his extradition to Azerbaijan has been a major point of contention. In February, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled that Georgia could not extradite Sadygov until a final judgment was issued, which could take years.
**The Hunger Strike Continues**
Sadygov’s response to this ruling was to continue his hunger strike, which he had started in prison. The strike lasted for 161 days, but ended shortly after the ECtHR’s decision. However, it seems that Sadygov’s struggles were far from over.
**Arrest and Bail**
In August 2024, Sadygov was arrested in Georgia on charges related to his extradition. His detention sparked international outcry, with many human rights groups calling for his release. On April 16, the Tbilisi City Court granted a prosecutor’s request to replace his extradition detention with bail of GEL 5,000 (about $1,800).
**A Step in the Right Direction**
While Sadygov’s release on bail is a welcome development, it is essential to remember that he should not have been detained in the first place. The SJC argued that no restrictions should have been applied, and many human rights groups continue to call for his full release.
**A Lesson Learned**
This case highlights the complexities of extradition laws and the importance of protecting journalists’ rights. It also serves as a reminder that even in democratic countries like Georgia, human rights abuses can occur. As Sadygov’s story shows, it is essential to stand up for those who are marginalized or oppressed.
Read More @ civil.ge
