Azerbaijan sentences Talysh activist Kamal Isaev to 8.5 years
Kamal Isaev, an activist defending the Talysh language and culture, was sentenced to 8.5 years in prison by a court in Baku. He was accused of inciting state opposition, hatred, and spreading symbols threatening Azerbaijan's territorial integrity.
Consensus
- Kamal Isaev was sentenced to 8.5 years imprisonment by a court in Baku.
- He was convicted of inciting state opposition, inciting hatred and enmity, and spreading symbols aimed at undermining Azerbaijan's territorial integrity.
- Isaev's defense claimed he did not advocate for a separate Talysh state or the breakup of Azerbaijan.
- His activities were described by relatives as focused solely on protecting the Talysh language and cultural heritage.
- Isaev was detained in Turkey in November 2025 and extradited to Azerbaijan.
- Isaev holds Russian citizenship.
Coverage (2 sources)
- In Azerbaijan, activist Khamal Isaev given 8.5 years in prison. He defended the language and culture of the Talysh — Радио Свобода
- In Azerbaijan, activist Khamal Isaev given 8.5 years in prison. He defended the language and culture of the Talysh — Настоящее Время