During the tenth session of the Conference of the States Parties (CoSP) to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, held in Atlanta, USA from 11 to 15 December 2023, a significant number of individuals voiced their opposition to the arrest of Dr. Gubad Ibadoglu. This conference, which occurs biennially, is the largest global anti-corruption event, with its outcomes profoundly influencing our future anti-corruption endeavors.
Mathias Huter
Managing Director of UNCAC- United Nations Coalition Against Corruption
Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, a prominent figure in the fight against corruption, and his wife have been subjected to a distressing incident where they were beaten and unjustly arrested. Their unwavering dedication to combating corruption has made them targets, putting their lives at risk. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that Dr. Ibadoghlu is not receiving the essential medical assistance he urgently requires. It is imperative that we join forces and raise our voices to demand the immediate release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, ensuring his safety and access to the necessary medical care. Let us stand together in solidarity and advocate for justice to prevail in this critical situation.
Ketakandriana Rafitoson, Vice Chair of Transparency International, dedicated to promoting transparency and integrity.
I would like to bring attention to the remarkable work of DR. Gubad Ibadoghlu, who is widely recognized for his invaluable contributions to Researches on Resource Governance. As a passionate anti-corruption campaigner, he has dedicated his efforts to combatting corruption in the natural resources sector. Unfortunately, despite his unwavering commitment, he is unable to be with us today due to being incarcerated for the past 142 days. In light of the upcoming elections and the challenges we face, it is imperative that we rally together and provide immediate support to DR. Gubad Ibadoghlu. The situation demands urgent attention, and I implore everyone to lend a helping hand to this exceptional individual who is in dire need of assistance.
I urgently call for the immediate release of Gubad Ibadoghlu, a highly esteemed Azerbaijani researcher and environmental defender who has been unjustly detained by his own government. Gubad’s unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and advocating for the well-being of his community has made him a respected figure both nationally and internationally. It is crucial that we stand together in demanding justice and freedom for Gubad, ensuring that his invaluable contributions to society are not silenced.
Giorgi Oniani, Deputy Executive Director of Transparency International Georgia.
I would like to draw attention to a remarkable individual who is just 20 years old. This week, despite feeling exhausted, he has made a valiant effort to shed light on his father’s tragic story. Many of you may have already had the privilege of meeting him. I am referring to DR. Gubad Ibadoghlu, our esteemed colleague, who was supposed to attend this gathering. He is not only a fellow anti-corruption fighter but also someone whose detention is surrounded by questionable circumstances. However, what truly warrants our immediate concern is his deteriorating health condition, which requires urgent attention. I urge all of you to contribute in any way possible as this is a purely humanitarian emergency. Let us rally our colleagues to do more and shine an even brighter light on this matter.
Olanrewaju Suraju, the founder of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda, Nigeria
I would like to draw attention to Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu, an esteemed economist known for his positive attitude and dedication to his work. Recently, he and his wife were unjustifiably arrested, with his wife subjected to brutal beatings by eight police officers. Despite facing critical health problems, Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu remains behind bars, with the government denying access to the International Committee of the Red Cross and foreign doctors. It is important to highlight that Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu is widely recognized for his anti-corruption efforts, making it clear that his arrest is purely based on baseless claims and motivated by fake charges. It is imperative that Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu be released immediately, as his place is in the classrooms, continuing his important work.
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