The Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan has issued a strong condemnation regarding the biased and misleading coverage by certain French media outlets concerning a recent criminal incident. The agency stated that these publications are deliberately attempting to damage Azerbaijan's international reputation through manipulative reporting.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the Media Development Agency emphasized that the theatrical approach and sensationalism surrounding the legal proceedings clearly indicate that the coverage is being orchestrated as part of a politically motivated campaign.
"The unsuccessful attempts by certain French media entities to politicize a criminal incident and involve the names of Azerbaijani officials are part of a systematic smear campaign against our country," the agency stated. It noted that outlets such as Revue21, TV5 Monde, Le Figaro, and Le Monde—known for their proximity to French state circles—have shown a suspicious level of interest in the matter, driven by circles concerned about Azerbaijan's growing international influence.
The agency further asserted that these media organizations are violating universally accepted international journalistic ethics, effectively acting as tools for a commissioned political agenda. While criminal acts carry individual responsibility, the agency criticized the French media for emphasizing the perpetrator's national identity rather than the legal facts, arguing that this promotes stereotypes and discrimination rather than the rule of law.
"We view this smear campaign launched by certain French media outlets based on manipulated information as a targeted propaganda element and categorically condemn such actions, which are incompatible with the principles of media professionalism," the statement concluded.
The Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan is the primary state body responsible for supporting the development of media, ensuring the protection of journalists' rights, and promoting professional standards within the country's information landscape.
