Exile Talks: Azerbaijan Tue, Jan. 20, 2026

What does it mean to speak freely when journalism and art are under constant threat?
According to the global Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, Azerbaijan ranks near the bottom worldwide (167 out of 180). While critical reporting has been suppressed for many years, the situation for independent journalists has deteriorated even further since 2023 and Azerbaijan’s military victory in the Nagorny Karabakh conflict. As of 2026, at least 24 journalists are imprisoned because of their work. All remaining independent media outlets now operate from exile, facing growing difficulties in accessing reliable information and reaching audiences inside the country. Meanwhile, media operating within Azerbaijan are tightly controlled by the state, with state television serving as the primary source of news for much of the population. In this environment, how can exiled media continue to function? How do journalists access information, protect their sources, and ensure their reporting still reaches people at home?

The repression of freedom of expression in Azerbaijan extends far beyond journalism. Creative spaces — particularly theatre — are also subject to strict state control. With a long tradition of state theatres and heavy dependence on approval and funding from the Ministry of Culture, independent productions struggle to survive. Alternative perspectives, whether documentary or fictional, face censorship and political pressure. As a result, many independent theatre initiatives have disappeared in recent years or have been forced to relocate abroad. How can artists continue their work and connect with audiences when their stage is in another country?

In this edition of Exile Talks, journalist Fatima Karimova (Mikroskop Media) and theater maker and cultural observer Elmin Badalov share their experiences of censorship, pressure, and exile. Together, they discuss how journalistic work can continue across borders, how exile reshapes cultural systems, and what happens to creative and media freedom in moments of political rupture.
Moderated by Maria Kotsev (journalist at Tagesspiegel, Host of GenEast Podcast)

The evening offers space for questions, dialogue, and informal networking with snacks and drinks, as well as the opportunity to browse publications by the speakers and CORRECTIV.

Exile Talks is a monthly series highlighting the expertise and experiences of exiled journalists and media professionals. This event is a cooperation with Gen East Podcast.