Washington deeply regrets Azerbaijan’s decision not to renew the broadcasting licenses of Radio Liberty, Voice of America and the BBC

We deeply regret Azerbaijan’s decision not to renew the broadcasting licenses of Radio Liberty, Voice of America and the BBC. These media organizations play a crucial role in supporting democratic debate and the free exchange of ideas and information. This decision, if carried out, will represent a serious setback to freedom of speech, and retard democratic reform in Azerbaijan.

We remain committed to working with the government of Azerbaijan to find the proper legal framework within which these radio and TV broadcasts can continue.

Gordon K. Duguid,
Acting Deputy Spokesman
Washington, DC