Statement by the Spokesperson on the transfer of Dr Leyla Yunus from jail

The Baku Court of Appeal decided today to transfer human rights defender Dr Leyla Yunus to house arrest on medical grounds. This is a welcome and positive humanitarian gesture which follows a similar decision on 12 November with regard to Dr Yunus` husband, Mr Arif Yunus. We are ready to further deepen and broaden our relations with Azerbaijan.


President Schulz on the release of Leyla Yunus

On behalf of the European Parliament, I warmly welcome the release of Azeri human rights defender Leyla Yunus, director of the Institute of Peace and Democracy in Azerbaijan. On the eve of Human Rights Day, the release of Ms Yunus is wonderful news for all the defenders of human rights in Azerbaijan and worldwide.


OSCE/ODIHR Director Link praises release of Leyla Yunus

Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), today welcomed the release from custody of Azerbaijani human rights defender Leyla Yunus. “Leyla Yunus’ release today is a positive and much welcome humanitarian gesture,” said Director Link.


Secretary General of the Council of Europe Thorbjorn Jagland on release of human rights defender Leyla Yunus

"I am relieved about Leyla Yunus’ long overdue release. I hope she can now begin a full recovery and put this ordeal behind her", said Secretary General


US calls release of Leyla Yunus positive step

"We welcome today’s decision by the Baku Court of Appeals to release human rights activist Leyla Yunus from prison on humanitarian grounds. Together with the November release of her husband Arif, we view it as a positive step, and we look forward to more such steps."


PACE President relieved with the release of Azerbaijani human rights activist Leyla Yunus

“I am glad that Leyla Yunus has been released. This is a welcome humanitarian gesture and a relief for all Leyla`s friends and family. Her deteriorating health condition has been a source of great concern and her release, so soon after that of her husband, Arif Yunus, is very good news,” Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly President Anne Brasseur declared today.

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