The United States views the November 12 decision by the Baku Court of Appeals to transfer peace activist and historian Arif Yunus from prison to house arrest on humanitarian grounds as a positive step. We hope the Azerbaijani government will give similar consideration to other prisoners reportedly facing severe health challenges.
We call on the government of Azerbaijan to adhere to its international obligations and OSCE commitments to protect and promote human rights and the fundamental freedoms of all.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the OSCE Permanent Council, Vienna
