Shahin Novruzlu and fellow youth activists from the pro-democracy movement NIDA campaigned for democracy and against human rights abuses and widespread corruption in Azerbaijan.

In February 2013 they created a Facebook event calling for a peaceful protest against injustice in the country.

Shortly afterwards, Shahin and seven other NIDA activists were arrested. Some of them were tortured. As a result, Shahin, who was 17 years old at the time, lost four of his front teeth. His friend Mammad lost hearing in one ear, Amnesty International said.

Shahin and the rest of the activists are currently in detention on false charges of illegal firearms possession and plotting mass disorder. The final court hearing on their case will take place in the coming days, before the end of May.

If convicted they will face up to 12 years in prison.

Meanwhile, on 14 May, Azerbaijan will assume chairmanship of the Council of Europe’s decision-making body, the Committee of Ministers. This organization is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights across Europe. Azerbaijan will be providing leadership in this organization during the next six months. In the meantime in Azerbaijan itself, arbitrary arrest, torture and unfair trials are a reality. Those who express criticism and organize peaceful protests go to prison.

ANN.Az