Does Advocacy Matter in Dealing with Authoritarian Regimes?

Abstract

Azerbaijan's leadership is growing in power and influence. So far it has managed to attract support from many European and American politicians through its skilled "caviar diplomacy." At the same time, advocates for more transparency, democracy and freedom in Azerbaijan face harsh crackdowns. Many of the country's well-known activists, rights defenders and journalists are currently in jail. In fact, foreign analysts described the repressions of 2014 as "unprecedented." International rights advocates played a tremendous role in telling the stories of those who have been unlawfully silenced in Azerbaijan. However, these criticisms are not enough to hold the political leadership accountable for its actions. A consolidated effort by governments, rights institutions, media and international organizations is needed to trigger change.