MEDİA condemns French media's defamatory campaign against Azerbaijan

Some French media outlets are spreading one-sided and manipulative materials that distort public opinion and damage Azerbaijan's international image, the Media Development Agency of Azerbaijan (MEDİA) said in a statement, according to Report.

The use of classic manipulation techniques around a routine criminal case, as well as attempts to create sensationalism around judicial proceedings with "theatrical effects," indicate political motivation.

The document notes that attempts by certain French media outlets to politicize a criminal case and mention Azerbaijani officials in this context are part of a systematic campaign to discredit the country.

According to the statement, media structures such as Revue21, TV5 Monde, Le Figaro, and Le Monde allegedly engage in black PR against Azerbaijan and are close to French state circles, showing "particular sensitivity" due to hidden political interests.

MEDİA also stated that such publications violate international journalistic ethics and effectively confirm participation in a targeted political campaign.

The agency emphasized that crime is an individual responsibility and that focusing on the nationality of offenders rather than their actions contradicts the rule of law and contributes to discrimination.

MEDİA said it views the publications as part of a coordinated propaganda campaign against Azerbaijan and strongly condemns such unprofessional journalistic practices.