Azerbaijani Bar condemns abuse in Russia, plans legal action, international outreach

Azerbaijani Bar Association has announced plans to formally appeal to the Russian Federal Bar Association (RFBA), seeking legal assistance for Azerbaijani nationals who have been unlawfully detained in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

The decision was made during a regular meeting of the Azerbaijani Bar Association Presidium, which was opened by Chairman Anar Baghirov, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

 In his remarks, Baghirov provided an overview of the Association’s recent activities, outlined key tasks ahead, and condemned the reported acts of violence and unlawful detentions targeting Azerbaijani citizens in Yekaterinburg.

"Such actions diminish the authority of the legal profession in society and create a sense of fear. Individuals who, as lawyers, are meant to defend others are themselves being rendered defenseless and subjected to violence," Baghirov stated.

He emphasized that the Azerbaijani Bar Association will send an official appeal to the RFBA to ensure professional legal support for the detained individuals and their families. He also announced the Association's intention to engage international human rights organizations regarding documented cases of inhumane treatment of Azerbaijani lawyers and abuse of power by Russian law enforcement officers. Baghirov assured that the Azerbaijani Bar Association is closely monitoring the situation and will pursue all available legal avenues.  

The meeting also included a swearing-in ceremony for a new bar member who had successfully passed the required written and oral examinations and completed mandatory training. Upon taking an oath to uphold legal ethics and professional responsibilities, the candidate was formally admitted to the Bar.

In another development, the Presidium approved the renaming of the Bar Association’s Academy to the Training Center of the Bar Association. The move aligns with international practice and reflects the institution’s primary goal: to enhance professional development and ensure continuous legal education.

The session also reviewed the results of recent inspections of regional legal structures. Several deficiencies were identified, prompting directives for immediate corrective action and a resolution to strengthen oversight mechanisms.

Additionally, disciplinary measures were issued against multiple lawyers. Three received warnings, three were reprimanded, four received official remarks, and one was suspended from duty for a defined period.

The meeting concluded with discussions on other pressing matters relevant to the Bar Association’s operations, resulting in a series of resolutions aimed at strengthening the legal profession’s standards and accountability.

By Vafa Guliyeva