UNESCO chief condemns killing of journalist Azerbaijan, calls for investigation

The head of the United Nations agency charged with promoting press freedom condemned today the killing of Azerbaijani journalist Rasim Aliyev, who died in the capital, Baku, on 9 August, asserting that “impunity for crimes against journalists cannot be allowed to take root.”

In a statement, Irina Bokova, Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), condemned the attack, saying that the authorities must ensure that those responsible for the death of Mr Aliyev are brought to justice.

“This is essential to protect the rule of law and press freedom.”

Thirty-year-old Rasim Aliyev, a freelance contributor to several independent news websites, died in the hospital from injuries received when he was beaten by several assailants on 8 August. Mr. Aliyev, who chaired the Baku-based Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety, is reported to have requested police protection following threats on his life.