This week saw developments in an ongoing investigation into leaders of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), a high-profile case involving a 19-year-old girl in Aghjabadi, and a controversial building demolition in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijani Prosecutor General’s Office investigates NGO leaders for alleged misconduct
Mirvari Gahramanli, head of the Oil Workers’ Rights Protection Organization, has been summoned for questioning by the Azerbaijani Prosecutor General’s Office as part of a broader investigation into several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the country. The investigation, which involves multiple criminal charges such as money laundering, abuse of office, and forgery, has also seen the house arrest of Hafiz Hasanov, director of the “Law and Development” Public Union.
The investigation has led to the questioning of various NGO leaders and officials from international organizations. Critics of the government have voiced concerns that the crackdown on civil society organizations, coupled with recent legal amendments, signals further restrictions on freedom of association and expression in Azerbaijan. While Gahramanli has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, the case continues to attract attention both domestically and internationally.
Pregnant teenager’s case in Aghjabadi raises questions about family and legal protection
In February 2025, a 15-year-old girl in Aghjabadi gave birth after becoming pregnant by a 24-year-old man. The case came to light when doctors were involved, after both families attempted to keep the situation secret. The man was previously sentenced to six years in prison under Article 152.4.1 of the Criminal Code for engaging in sexual acts with a minor but was released on probation after serving part of his sentence. He now lives with the girl and is waiting for her to turn 18 to marry her.
Photo: Leonardo.ai
The girl’s family abandoned her, prompting criticism from Kamala Aghazada, head of the “Azerbaijan Children” NGO, who emphasized the failure to protect her rights and urged authorities to step in for her rehabilitation. The school principal was also fired for not intervening, highlighting a broader issue of weak educational policies. The case underscores challenges in enforcing laws in rural areas where tradition often trumps legal norms. Despite the legal marriage age being 18, exceptions allow for earlier marriage with authorities’ consent, as seen in this case.
Controversial demolition in Baku sparks investigation
A criminal investigation was launched into a construction company in Baku following the demolition of a residential building in Yasamal district. On March 27, 2025, social media posts revealed that homes on Abdulvahab Salamzada Street were being demolished while residents were still inside. The company responsible, “Melissa Group,” is under scrutiny, and the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture confirmed that the demolition was conducted without proper authorization. The committee is preparing to submit materials regarding the damage to citizens’ property to law enforcement for further investigation.
As part of the investigation, the company’s project manager and an excavator driver have been detained. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and rights of residents in Baku’s rapidly developing urban areas.
