Bill Explanation

Bill Explanation

The following bill, H. RES. 1012, condemns the treatment of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu by the Government of Azerbaijan and urges his immediate release. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 14, 2024, by Mr. R Ouzer and co-sponsored by several other representatives.

The bill highlights the situation of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, an academic and economist, who, along with his wife, was arrested by Azerbaijani authorities on July 23, 2023. During their time in police custody, they were severely beaten. Dr. Ibadoghlu was accused of multiple criminal acts without evidence.

The bill emphasizes that Dr. Ibadoghlu is currently imprisoned at the Baku Detention Center under extremely poor conditions while awaiting trial. His health has significantly deteriorated since his arrest, and he has not received adequate medical treatment. Additionally, he has been denied access to his legal counsel and a fair trial while in custody.

The Department of State, the United States Embassy in Baku, and various academic institutions and organizations have expressed deep concerns about Dr. Ibadoghlu's health and demanded his immediate release.

The bill resolves to:

Condemn the treatment of Dr. Ibadoghlu by the Government of Azerbaijan, their practice of wrongful detention, and their suppression of academic freedom.
Call for Dr. Ibadoghlu's immediate and unconditional release.
Urge the Secretary of State to prioritize Dr. Ibadoghlu's well-being and release in all engagements with the Government of Azerbaijan.

Rep. Grace Meng

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