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Historically, Azerbaijan has clearly stated its position regarding processes leading to freedom and democracy in Iran. Azerbaijan has not only contributed significantly to these processes but has also provided leadership. Recently, activities in pursuit of democracy and human rights have followed the announcement of presidential election results in several large cities, particularly Tehran. These actions are neither unusual nor unprecedented. They are considered the last recourse against the anti-democratic pressures that have been felt since the 1979 revolution.
Similarly, national, civil, democratic, and liberal movements within Azerbaijan have entered a new phase and taken on added dimensions since 1995. These movements are reflected in the course of elections, gatherings at the Babek Citadel, commemorative ceremonies, symposiums, and conferences, as well as events such as the “cartoon crisis,” which encouraged millions of people to take to the streets in pursuit of freedom and human rights. However, centralist opposition circles have exhibited attitudes of exclusivity and aloofness, failing to support the rightful protests for basic human rights and demands during the Azerbaijan cartoon crisis of March 2006.
Until now, Azerbaijan has remained silent during the ongoing democratic protests in Tehran, and this silence must be reconsidered.
We, the undersigned, despite the exclusive and neglectful stance of centralist opposition circles, cannot remain silent while excessive force and violence are used against democratic, civilian, and liberal protests taking place in Tehran. In this context, we express our deep sorrow over the events of recent days. We thoroughly condemn the suppression of humanity and democracy, as evidenced by the murders of unknown perpetrators, detentions, torture, shootings, exiles, and more.