In a major setback for anti-corruption efforts in Azerbaijan, Transparency International (TI) has announced the suspension of its activities in the country due to increased government restrictions.
The global anti-corruption watchdog cited “unfavorable working conditions and government interference” as key reasons behind its decision. The move follows years of mounting pressure on independent organizations in Azerbaijan, where the Aliyev government has been accused of suppressing transparency efforts.
According to TI, Azerbaijan ranks among the worst-performing countries in terms of corruption and lack of government accountability. The decision to suspend operations is expected to further hinder efforts to combat corruption, raising concerns among local and international observers.
This development comes amid a broader crackdown on NGOs, activists, and independent journalists, signaling a decline in Azerbaijan’s democratic standards.
