This week saw air pollution ranking, Ibadoglu’s court appeal and blockage of the Lachin corridor.
Azerbaijan ranks last among countries in terms of polluted air
Azerbaijan’s air quality is among the worst in the world, according to a report from Yale University’s Center for Environmental Policy and Law. The country’s air pollution levels are significantly high, leading to various respiratory problems for its citizens.
The report highlights that poor air quality is a critical public health problem worldwide, causing over 6 million premature deaths each year. The impact goes beyond respiratory issues, with residents exposed to polluted air facing increased risks of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Azerbaijan’s air quality is a critical issue. In the world ranking, the country stands at 149th among 180 countries, indicating the severity of the problem. Improving air quality in the country is not only a matter of public health but also has economic implications. Health-related costs due to air pollution can strain the healthcare system, and lost productivity from illnesses and premature deaths can hinder economic growth.
Gubad Ibadoglu’s detention: his appeal was not upheld
Despite an appeal against the arrest warrant, Gubad Ibadoglu remained in custody during the investigation. The appeal was not upheld, and a preventive measure of 3 months and 26 days of detention for the preliminary investigation period was ordered by the Narimanov District Court.
The accusation against Gubad Ibadoglu involves alleged conspiracy with four other individuals, who are said to be linked to the Fethullah Gülen Terrorist Organization (FETÖ). The accused individuals’ names were revealed in Turkish media, and all are charged under the same Article 204.3.1 of the Criminal Code. However, Gubad Ibadoglu denied knowing one of the individuals mentioned in his statement.
The case has garnered significant attention and repercussions in the international community. International organizations, such as Human Rights Watch, the European Union, and more are calling for his immediate release and are closely monitoring the developments of Ibadoglu’s detention.
Controversy over Lachin corridor: Azerbaijan claims misuse by Armenia, and restricts its use
The Lachin corridor, which is the only road connecting the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, has become a point of contention this week. Azerbaijan claims that it has established a border crossing point for its citizens to use this road, but Armenia’s alleged misuse of the road has led to restrictions on its use. This week, the road was closed by Azerbaijani authorities.
On July 26, 19 trucks with 400 tons of humanitarian aid sent by Armenia to the Armenian community of Karabakh were not allowed to enter the Lachin road. Although official Baku has put forward a number of proposals to Yerevan to meet the needs of Armenian residents, including the use of the Aghdam-Khankendi road and other alternative roads, the Armenian side does not accept it.
The international community has been involved in the situation, with Azerbaijan claiming that they are supporting incorrect terminology and actions that challenge Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Armenia, on the other hand, insists that the Lachin Corridor blockade should be lifted and maintains that there is no alternative to this route, citing legal decisions from the International Court of Justice.
