AZERBAIJAN LIBERAL YOUTH ASSOCIATION
STATEMENT
On March 13, 2008 one more attack made against journalist in Azerbaijan. Mr. Agil Khalil, a journalist of opposition - minded Azadliq (Freedom) newspaper has been brutally beaten and stabbed by unknown persons following the coward attack made against him on February 22, 2008.
Azerbaijan Liberal Youth Association (ALYA) - as an organization supports freedom of the speech expresses its deep concern with continuing facts of brutal violation and aggression against journalist in the country.
We strongly condemn the attempt on life of Mr. Aqil Khalil, the independent journalist and call on law-enforcement bodies to investigate the case and punish peoples that committed this crime.
Azerbaijan Liberal Youth Association (ALYA) also calls on International Community to press on Government to take all the possible measures in order to stop the systematic attacks against freedom of press and to provide safety of mass media representatives.
We are deeply concerned at the increase in attacks and physical violence against journalists
by unidentified assailants and call on Government to honour its commitments on freedom of expression and human rights.
Azerbaijan Liberal Youth Association (ALYA) considers that pressure, harassment and a series of violent attacks on journalists as well as the lack of effective, independent investigations into these incidents have had a chilling effect on the freedom of expression in the country.
Azerbaijan Liberal Youth Association (ALYA) once again raises concerns regarding attack against Mr. Aqil Khalil and hopes that authorities concerned will immediately investigate the case and find those who stand behind this vicious attack.
March 18, 2008
Press