Resource Information Center: Azerbaijan
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| Response to Information Request: | Number: AZE99001.ZAR |
|---|---|
| Date: | 4 November 1998 |
| Subject: | Azerbaijan: Information On The Treatment Of Homosexuals |
| From: | INS Resource Information Center, Washington, DC |
| Keywords: | Azerbaijan / Civil And Political Rights / Discrimination Based On Sexual Orientation / Freedom Of Association / Homosexual / Gay Rights / Individual Rights / Imprisoned Persons / Pardon / Right To Privacy / Same-Sex Couples / Sexual Orientation |
Query:
Is homosexual activity a criminal offense in Azerbaijan?
Response:
Amnesty International reports that article 113 of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan establishes sodomy, defined as "sexual relations of a man with another man," as a crime punishable by up to three years imprisonment (AI Sept. 1997, 5; AI 30 Oct. 1998). In addition, prisoners convicted under article 113 were not covered under a May 1998 presidential amnesty which released 10,000 criminals from Azerbaijani jails (AI 30 Oct. 1998).
This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the RIC within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.
References:
Amnesty International (AI). London. 30 October 1998. Electronic Correspondence with Representative.
Amnesty International (AI). September 1997. Commonwealth of Independent States: Amnesty International Working Against Laws Punishing Sexual Relations Between Men. (AI Index: EUR 04/09/97). London: Amnesty International.
Attachments:
Amnesty International (AI). London. 30 October 1998. Electronic Correspondence with Representative.
Amnesty International (AI). September 1997. Commonwealth of Independent States: Amnesty International Working Against Laws Punishing Sexual Relations Between Men. (AI Index: EUR 04/09/97). London: Amnesty International.