Natasha Schmidt

Using art to campaign for democracy in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, it is not only journalists who face intimidation, arrests and violence: artists, musicians and writers also come under attack for...

After world attention fades, Azerbaijani activists are attacked and arrested during protest

by Natasha Schmidt | 20 Nov 12

Journalists and activists were arrested and brutally attacked on Saturday, 17 November during an opposition protest in the Azerbaijani capital Baku....

Activist charged as Council of Europe urged to pressure Azerbaijan on political prisoners

by Natasha Schmidt | 03 Oct 12

Azerbaijaini political activist and blogger Zaur Gurbanli was detained by police on 29 September. Gurblani was part of the Sing For Democracy...

The truth about Azerbaijan

by Natasha Schmidt | 19 Sep 12

The gas-rich country presents itself as open and modern, but Azerbaijan is not safe for activists and journalists fighting for free speech, says Natasha Schmidt

European ministers call for Azerbaijan to release political prisoners

by Natasha Schmidt | 28 Jun 12

The Azerbaijani government must resolve the cases of 89 political prisoners and put an end to politically motivated arrests, the Council of Europe...

Is sport above human rights?

by Natasha Schmidt | 21 Jun 12

Natasha Schmidt: Is sport above human rights?

As the international community looks forward to the Eurovision Song Contest, Azerbaijan is working hard to present itself as a modern, democratic country. But a new report from Index and partners paints a very different picture

Turgut Gambar: Dissent stirs in Azerbaijan