Azerbaijan takes step forward with amnesty implementation

Azerbaijani authorities have initiated the implementation of a sweeping amnesty program, introduced by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in commemoration of the Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty.

The decision is expected to apply to a total of about 20,000 people. Under the preliminary provisions of the amnesty act, the sentences of more than 3,000 others will be reduced.

The measure also applies to non-custodial sentences, extending relief to more than 10,000 additional individuals.