Detention and Persecution of AROPL Members in Azerbaijan

The followers of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light continue to face serious challenges due to their faith, particularly in Azerbaijan where authorities and society have subjected them to systematic harassment, intimidation, and discrimination. Reports from believers in August 2025 reveal several incidents that illustrate how they are targeted not only by state institutions but also through social and economic pressures that isolate them from everyday life. These cases highlight the urgent need for recognition of their right to religious freedom and protection from persecution.

Natig Tofigzada - On 21 August 2025, followers of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light from around the world visited the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light headquarters located in the United Kingdom. Information and photographs about this visit were published on the official social media accounts of the religion. The gathering was seen as a moment of unity and strength for the community, allowing members from different regions to connect and reaffirm their faith despite the hardships they continue to face globally.

Among those who visited the church was Natig Tofigzada, a Canadian citizen of Azerbaijani origin. After visiting the church, Natig travelled to Azerbaijan to visit his family. Upon entering Azerbaijan, he was summoned to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan. When Natig asked the reason for the summons, he was informed that it was related to the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. This incident illustrates the constant monitoring and pressure faced by believers when they return to their home countries.

Huseyn Yusifli - On 5 August 2025, Huseyn Yusifli, a follower of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, distributed and posted posters in the City of Sumqayıt. On 6 August 2025, at approximately 2 p.m, he was detained by police officers and taken to the police station, where he was beaten, insulted, humiliated and falsely accused because of his religious beliefs. He was subsequently sentenced to 30 days of administrative detention.

The mistreatment of Huseyn underscores the ongoing pattern of intimidation and criminalisation faced by members of AROPL. In addition to this persecution, Huseyn was dismissed from his workplace solely because of his religious affiliation, depriving him of his livelihood and further adding to the discrimination he faced.

Such actions not only constitute a grave violation of Huseyn's fundamental human rights, including freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and the right to work, but also strip him of economic security, dignity, and equal protection under the law. Furthermore, they exemplify the systemic injustices endured by members of the AROPL community in many countries.

Ramil Ahmadov - Ramil Ahmadov has faced pressures because of his religious beliefs. His business suffered losses due to his faith, resulting in an estimated financial loss of approximately $100,000. As his religious affiliation has become widely known, he is not able to find a job or start a new business. He has been socially isolated and people refrain from associating with him for fear of societal reprisal. His situation reveals the far-reaching impact of religious persecution, depriving individuals of both livelihood and dignity.

The experiences of Natig Tofigzada, Huseyn Yusifli, and Ramil Ahmadov highlight the ongoing persecution faced by members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Azerbaijan. These cases make clear that freedom of religion remains under serious threat in the country. Without urgent intervention and accountability, individuals will continue to endure harassment, violence and exclusion, merely for practicing and expressing their faith.