In recent years, Azerbaijan has witnessed a growing wave of government crackdowns on civil society organizations, independent media, and political dissenters. This report highlights the latest ongoing political repressions: the police raid on March 6, 2024, and the subsequent legal actions against three prominent and independent entities - the Institute for Democratic Initiatives (IDI), Toplum TV, and the Third Republic platform (TRP). These organizations, each with distinct missions but united in their advocacy for democratic values and human rights, have been subjected to aggressive and coordinated repression by state authorities. 

This report provides a comprehensive examination of the events leading up to and following the police raid, scrutinizing the legal and procedural irregularities that accompanied the actions taken against these organizations and their members. The authorities have sought to portray these entities as part of a criminal conspiracy, alleging their involvement in bulk cash smuggling, a charge that is widely viewed as politically motivated and aimed at silencing critical voices.

The report explores the broader implications of these charges, considering whether those detained can be considered political prisoners under international human rights standards. Through detailed profiles of the individuals affected, the report illustrates the personal and professional toll of these state actions, while also highlighting the broader context of political repression in Azerbaijan. The aim of this report is not only to document these events but also to provide a clear and factual account that underscores the urgency of defending democratic freedoms in Azerbaijan.