Armenian-Christian Political Prisoner Faces Serious Health Threats in Azerbaijan

International human rights attorney for former Nagorno-Karabakh State Counselor Ruben Vardanyan is sounding the alarm as Vardanyan faces severe health risks while being held in an Azerbaijani prison. His condition has worsened dramatically after one week on a hunger strike, yet Azerbaijani authorities are forcing him to continue attending his trial. His international lawyer, Jared Genser, is raising serious concerns about the way Azerbaijan is handling his case.

On January 17, Vardanyan’s trial began after he had already spent 500 days in detention. He is facing politically motivated charges and could be sentenced to life in prison. To protest what he calls an unfair trial, Vardanyan started a hunger strike one week ago.

As a result, his health has declined sharply. His blood pressure has risen to 140/110, which is dangerously high and requires medical care. He has lost over six kilograms (13.2 pounds) and suffers from an elevated heart rate. During his recent court appearance, he was visibly weak and nearly lost consciousness several times.

Despite his worsening condition, Azerbaijani authorities insisted that Vardanyan appear in court. His trial is being held in secret, without public access. His defense team requested a postponement, but the court rejected their appeals multiple times. The judge only allowed a brief examination by a state-appointed doctor. However, the doctor did not share her medical findings with the defense, raising concerns about transparency and Vardanyan’s true health status.

Under international human rights laws, including Rule 27 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, prisoners should receive immediate medical attention when needed. By ignoring Vardanyan’s condition and forcing him to continue his trial, Azerbaijan may be violating these standards. His lawyer has described this treatment as cruel and inhumane.

Vardanyan’s legal team and human rights advocates are calling for urgent intervention. His lawyer, Jared Genser, has asked international organizations to request access to Vardanyan and monitor the trial to ensure his rights are not further violated.

Genser has also urged the Azerbaijani government to allow independent doctors to examine Vardanyan and provide necessary medical care. He called for an immediate postponement of the trial until Vardanyan recovers.

Furthermore, he appealed to world leaders, including Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, to publicly condemn the trial as politically motivated and unlawful.