The European Parliament has adopted resolutions addressing human rights concerns in Azerbaijan, Nigeria, and Guinea Bissau. The decisions were made during a session on Thursday.
In Azerbaijan, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) criticized the authorities for using national security laws to suppress freedom of expression and target critics. They highlighted the cases of Bahruz Samadov, a PhD student at Charles University, and Igbal Abilov, a researcher from the Talysh ethnic minority and editor-in-chief of Talysh National Academy News. Both individuals have been arrested and sentenced under what MEPs describe as arbitrary conditions. The resolution also referenced Gubad Ibadoghlu and Fazil Gasimov, two other academics who have faced similar treatment, as well as Ali Karimli, an opposition leader detained on December 1, 2025.
MEPs called for “the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including Bahruz Samadov…and Igbal Abilov.” They condemned “the unjust and arbitrary sentencing” of others named in the resolution. MEPs urged that officials responsible be subject to measures under the EU global human rights sanctions regime. The resolution further stated that any future partnership with Azerbaijan should depend on improvements in human rights and adherence to EU values.
The vote passed with 477 in favor, 7 against, and 69 abstentions.
Turning to Nigeria, MEPs responded to a mass kidnapping incident on November 21 when gunmen abducted more than 300 students along with teachers from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. They expressed solidarity with those affected by the attack and noted that ongoing violence has led to school closures across Nigeria. MEPs stressed the need for alternative learning arrangements so that children can continue their education despite disruptions.
They urged Nigerian authorities “to conduct independent and effective investigations and to prosecute those responsible,” emphasizing compliance with international human rights standards. MEPs also called for action against insecurity and violence targeting religious communities—especially Christians—and pressed for an end to impunity for such crimes.
This resolution was adopted by a vote of 519 in favor, 2 against, with 50 abstentions.
Regarding Guinea Bissau, MEPs rejected the military coup that took place three days after general elections on November 26—elections where the main opposition party PAIGC was not allowed to participate. The resolution demanded an independent investigation into reported human rights violations following the coup and accountability for those involved. It also called for “the immediate and unconditional release of political opposition leaders” while condemning excessive force used by security forces.
MEPs insisted that election results be published without interference from military or political actors. They asked the EU to reassess its agreements with Guinea Bissau to avoid supporting authoritarian structures or individuals responsible for abuses. The Council was encouraged to consider restrictive measures targeting those behind both the coup and related violations.
The measure passed with 535 votes in favor; there were no votes against but there were 42 abstentions.
