AZERBAIJAN: Multiple fines for Muslims meeting for prayer in homes

Multiple prosecutions and fines of Muslims – who in different parts of Azerbaijan met for Islamic worship in homes without state permission – have followed raids by police and State Committee for Work with Religious Organisations officials. The Muslims were each fined the equivalent of about two months’ average wages for those in formal work. For people in rural areas, those without a formal job, or pensioners, such fines are a heavy financial burden.