Why Rihanna and Shakira should think twice before performing in Azerbaijan
armradio.am
10:30 06.10.2012
Rihanna and Shakira should bear in mind the human rights abuses being
inflicted on the people of Azerbaijan before they perform in the
country’s capital later this month, Amnesty International and Sing for
Democracy warned in a letter ahead of the concerts.
The two singers are appearing in Baku during the current FIFA U-17
Women’s World Cup 2012.
In a joint letter, the two organizations draw attention to the current
state of human rights and freedom of expression in Azerbaijan.
It also informs Rihanna and Shakira about the unsolved killing of
reporter Elmar Huseynov – murdered in 2005 – and the multiple arrests
and persecution of journalists, bloggers and political activists.
The letter – signed by John Dalhuisen, Amnesty International’s Europe
and Central Asia Programme Director and Sing for Democracy coordinator
Rasul Jafaro – highlights the ban on anti-government protests in the
center of Baku.
`Both singers should be aware of the situation in the country post-Eurovision.’
`This includes the spurious criminal case against photo-journalist
Mehman Huseynov on trumped up hooliganism charges.’
Huseynov had actively been involved in human rights campaign conducted
ahead of the Eurovision 2012 Song Contest. If convicted Mehman he
faces five years in jail.
In a separate case, a singer arrested at a peaceful protest by young
people on March 2012, had to leave the country because of ongoing
harassment.
`Amnesty International believes that the Azerbaijani government should
afford all artists, journalists, activists and ordinary citizens the
right to express themselves freely without fear of reprisal. We hope
that you share our belief,’ concludes the letter.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Emil Lazarian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.
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