The World Liberty Congress (WLC) expresses its grave concern over credible threats to the lives and safety of Mehman Huseynov, investigative journalist and human rights defender, and his brother Emin Huseynov, prominent Azerbaijani activist and WLC Leaders.
In recent weeks, Mehman and Emin have faced escalating intimidation following their public investigation into the ruling family of Azerbaijan and their outspoken advocacy at major international forums. After the Geneva Democracy Summit, Emin Huseynov was followed by two individuals he identified as Azerbaijani nationals. When confronted and filmed, one of the men fled the scene. This incident was broadcast live and raises serious concerns of surveillance and potential physical harm.
The pattern of threats did not begin there. Following public questioning of Ilham Aliyev and Mehriban Aliyeva during the Munich Security Conference, pro-government outlets launched a coordinated defamation and intimidation campaign against Emin. Statements made publicly by senior Azerbaijani officials, combined with reports of alleged orders to “neutralize” the brothers, constitute an alarming escalation that cannot be ignored.
We are witnessing what appears to be a continuation of transnational repression — the extension of authoritarian intimidation beyond national borders to silence critics abroad. Such actions strike at the heart of democratic norms and the safety of dissidents worldwide.
The World Liberty Congress stands in full solidarity with Mehman and Emin. We condemn in the strongest possible terms any attempt to threaten, surveil, intimidate, or physically harm human rights defenders for exercising their fundamental rights to free expression and peaceful advocacy.
The safety of dissidents and democracy advocates is not a private matter — it is a global one. When authoritarian regimes attempt to export repression, the international community must respond with unity and resolve.
We call on democratic governments and relevant authorities in Europe to ensure the immediate protection and safety of Mehman Huseynov and Emin Huseynov, to investigate credible threats, and to make clear that acts of transnational repression will carry consequences.
The World Liberty Congress will continue to monitor this situation closely and mobilize its global network in defense of its members and all those targeted for their peaceful activism.
Organizations, legal experts, security specialists, and partner institutions that are able to provide protection support, emergency assistance, advocacy backing, or other forms of solidarity are encouraged to reach out directly to the World Liberty Congress.
In moments like these, solidarity is not symbolic — it is protective.
