In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding human rights abuses in Azerbaijan, particularly under President Ilham Aliyev's regime. A prominent speaker highlighted the plight of ethnic Armenians and Azerbaijanis, noting that approximately 300 political prisoners are currently detained in Azerbaijan, including Ivanodoglou, an international economist imprisoned for advocating human rights.

The speaker expressed disappointment with the Biden administration's response to these issues, emphasizing the need for a bipartisan condemnation of human rights violations regardless of the political party in power. They criticized the U.S. government's lack of objection to Azerbaijan hosting the upcoming COP 29 climate summit, suggesting that the event is being used by the Aliyev government to project a false image of peace while continuing its oppressive policies.

The discussion also touched on the recent military actions that led to the displacement of over 120,000 Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, a region of historical significance to the Armenian people. The speaker called for immediate action, including the release of political prisoners and a commitment to human rights legislation, specifically the introduction of the Azerbaijan Democracy Act, aimed at aligning U.S. policy with the principles of freedom and the rule of law.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for international attention to the ongoing human rights crisis in Azerbaijan, as well as the broader implications for regional stability and the rights of ethnic minorities.