Nathan Reynoso 
12 September 2025
Today is Gubad Ibadoghlu’s birthday, and the third year that he is spending it without his family, detained by the authorities of Azerbaijan for speaking the truth about corruption and environmental degradation in the fossil fuel industry in his home country.
As we celebrate Gubad, we are reminded of his bravery, his steadfast commitment to the truth, to justice, freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
Unjustly and violently arrested by the Azerbaijani authorities on July 23, 2023, Gubad spent almost 9 months in pre-trial detention, accused of trumped-up charges and deprived of access to legal counsel, family visits, and much-needed medical care. In April 2024, he was moved to house arrest, but continues to be denied medical treatment, is unable to travel or work, and the government is now threatening other members of his family in the most heinous practice of collective punishment, used by the government of Azerbaijan and other authoritarian regimes in an effort to silence its critics.
Today, as every day, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of Gubad Ibadoghlu and all political prisoners in Azerbaijan.
Happy birthday, Gubad. You are not alone; we stand in solidarity with you, demanding justice and accountability.