Introduction: Faith Under Control
Despite presenting itself internationally as a secular and tolerant country, Azerbaijan tightly controls religious expression. Through restrictive laws, state surveillance, and harassment of believers, the government severely limits the ability of citizens to freely practice their faith. Minority religious groups, independent Muslim communities, and smaller Christian denominations face particular persecution. As a result, many believers live in fear, while others choose to leave the country in search of genuine freedom of worship abroad.


Historical Context of Religion in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan has a rich religious history, shaped by its majority-Muslim population alongside Christian, Jewish, and other communities. During the Soviet period, religion was heavily repressed, with only state-approved worship tolerated. Following independence, religious revival occurred, but the government soon reimposed restrictions to consolidate power and limit any perceived challenge to state authority.


State Control of Islam
The government exerts strict control over Islamic practice, requiring all mosques to register with state authorities and operate under the Caucasus Muslim Board. Independent mosques and prayer groups face closure, while imams critical of the government are harassed or arrested. Friday sermons are often dictated by state officials, reflecting the politicisation of religious life.


Persecution of Shi’a Communities
Shi’a Muslims, particularly those perceived as sympathetic to Iran, face heightened scrutiny and persecution. Community leaders are often accused of extremism and detained on vague security charges. This targeting deepens mistrust between Shi’a communities and the state, contributing to ongoing tensions.


Restrictions on Sunni Communities
Sunni groups also encounter restrictions, particularly if they attempt to operate independently of state-approved religious institutions. Efforts to establish independent religious schools or publish Sunni literature often result in harassment, confiscation of materials, or closure of institutions.


Harassment of Non-Muslim Faiths
Christian denominations, including Baptists, Evangelicals, and Jehovah’s Witnesses, face regular harassment. Churches are denied registration, religious literature is confiscated, and worship services are disrupted by police raids. Although Azerbaijan maintains small Jewish communities, they also report restrictions on cultural and educational activities.


Censorship of Religious Materials
Religious literature is heavily censored, requiring approval from the State Committee for Work with Religious Associations. Unapproved texts are confiscated, and individuals found distributing them risk fines or imprisonment. This censorship restricts the free exchange of ideas and undermines religious education.


Criminalisation of Religious Activism
Religious activists who advocate for greater freedom are often accused of extremism or terrorism. These broad charges allow the state to imprison critics and silence demands for reform. By equating independent religious activity with extremism, the government discourages any challenge to its authority.


Impact on Minority Communities
Ethnic minorities, such as Lezgins, Talysh, and Avars, often face compounded discrimination, as their cultural and religious practices are simultaneously restricted. These communities are left politically marginalised and socially vulnerable, fuelling emigration.


Migration as a Response to Persecution
Faced with systemic harassment, many religious minorities and independent believers choose migration as their only path to security. Diaspora communities abroad provide safer environments where they can freely practice their faith, while also advocating for reforms in Azerbaijan.


International Criticism
International organisations, including the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, Freedom House, and Amnesty International, have repeatedly criticised Azerbaijan’s restrictions on religion. Despite these reports, the government continues to deny allegations of systemic abuse, claiming instead to protect national security and promote tolerance.


Conclusion: Worship in Exile
Religious freedom in Azerbaijan is severely restricted, with the state using laws, surveillance, and intimidation to control belief. For many, the price of practicing faith freely is exile, as they seek abroad the dignity denied at home. Until Azerbaijan recognises and protects the rights of all believers, migration will remain the only refuge for its persecuted religious communities.