Azerbaijan's parliament has adopted amendments to the law on public gatherings which significantly increase fines for illegal demonstrations.
The fines have been increased to up to $10,000 for organizing or participating in unsanctioned public gatherings.
Before, the maximum fine was $640.
Carrying firearms, knives, or explosives at such gatherings could now be punished by up to three years' imprisonment.
Earlier on November 2, Baku police dispersed dozens of activists protesting the amendments.
Several activists were detained and later released.
Earlier this week, human rights group Amnesty International called on Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to "end the crackdown on dissent and to ensure that all citizens are able to enjoy their fundamental rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association."
The fines have been increased to up to $10,000 for organizing or participating in unsanctioned public gatherings.
Before, the maximum fine was $640.
Carrying firearms, knives, or explosives at such gatherings could now be punished by up to three years' imprisonment.
Earlier on November 2, Baku police dispersed dozens of activists protesting the amendments.
Several activists were detained and later released.
Earlier this week, human rights group Amnesty International called on Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to "end the crackdown on dissent and to ensure that all citizens are able to enjoy their fundamental rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association."
