European Court blocks extradition of journalist Afgan Sadigov from Georgia

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has imposed an interim measure preventing Georgia from extraditing exiled Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Sadigov to Azerbaijan until his case is fully reviewed in Strasbourg. Following the court’s decision, Sadigov ended his 161-day hunger strike.

The Social Justice Center, which represents Sadigov, welcomed the ruling, stating they will seek his release in the coming days, given the lengthy timeline of ECHR proceedings.

Sadigov was arrested in Tbilisi on August 3, 2024, based on an extradition request from Azerbaijan, where he faces criminal charges. His legal team argues that returning him would put his life and safety at serious risk.

On January 10, 2025, the Social Justice Center appealed to the ECHR, requesting a temporary suspension of his extradition. The court granted the request on January 14, barring Georgia from handing Sadigov over until seven days after a final appellate ruling. It also prioritized the case under Rule 41, ensuring expedited review.

Despite the Georgian government’s insistence that Sadigov faced no danger in Azerbaijan, the ECHR extended the interim measure on February 27, 2025, keeping it in force until the case is fully adjudicated.

For now, Sadigov remains in Tbilisi’s N18 medical facility, where he is receiving treatment after his prolonged hunger strike.