A criminal case has been opened against Shahla Ismayil, chairperson of the Women for Rational Development Society, under two articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, according to Gununsesi.info.
The case is being investigated by the Investigation Department of the Prosecutor General’s Office, which is conducting a broader probe into the activities of several non-governmental organizations. Details of the specific charges against Ismayil have not been disclosed.
Shahla Ismayil is known for her work on gender equality and peacebuilding. In 2022, she was awarded the French Order of the Legion of Honour (Chevalier) for her contributions to women’s rights. The award was presented at the French Embassy in Baku.
Since the Prosecutor General’s Office launched the investigation, five people have been arrested, while others have been placed under travel restrictions or other preventive measures.
Among those charged are Galib Bayramov, head of the Economic Research Center and brother of economist Gubad Ibadoghlu of the London School of Economics; Bashir Suleymanli, director of the Civil Rights Institute; and Nargiz Mukhtarova, a women’s rights activist.
The trial of Hafiz Hasanov, head of the “Law and Development” Public Union, is scheduled to begin on October 22.
Observers said the case comes amid increased scrutiny of NGOs in Azerbaijan, where several organizations and activists have recently faced financial and legal investigations. Authorities say the measures aim to strengthen oversight and transparency, while critics argue they may further limit the operating space for independent groups.
