Court of Appeals in Baku confirms 7.5-year prison term for critical journalist Khadija Ismayilova

On November 25, the Baku Court of Appeals upheld the 7.5-year sentence for investigative journalist and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty contributor Khadija Ismayilova, RFE/RL Azerbaijani service said.

In September, Ismayilova was convicted on charges of criminal libel, tax evasion, illegal business activity, and abuse of power.

During the appeal hearing, the defense asked to close the criminal case and release the journalist.

Khadija Ismayilova denies all charges and says that her arrest is related to her journalistic activities.

Amnesty International recognized Khadija Ismayilova a prisoner of conscience.