**Azerbaijan Faces Backlash as Host of COP29 Over Fossil Fuel Promotion and Suppression of Dissent**

BAKU, Azerbaijan - As COP29 reaches its midpoint, Azerbaijan is attracting substantial criticism for its approach to climate issues. Rights advocates allege that the nation is leveraging the prestigious forum to advocate for fossil fuels, while simultaneously silencing critics at home.

President Ilham Aliyev has controversially referred to fossil fuels as a "gift of the God," a stance that stands in stark contrast to the conference's overarching goal of mitigating climate change. This position has not only raised eyebrows globally but has also drawn backlash from environmentalists and policymakers advocating for a rapid transition to cleaner energy sources.

In the lead-up to the 12-day event, rights groups reported a severe crackdown on journalists and activists within Azerbaijan. Many of those targeted had dared to scrutinize the country’s heavy reliance on oil and gas, or had been involved in probing the environmental and economic impacts of its energy sector.

Critics argue that this suppression of dissent tarnishes the ideals of open dialogue and transparency that COP29 aims to uphold. They claim that instead of fostering meaningful discussions on reducing carbon emissions, Azerbaijan's authoritarian measures are stifling necessary debates and investigations.

The controversy casts a shadow over the climate conference, challenging its efficacy in pushing for critical environmental reforms. Participants and observers alike are left questioning whether the host nation’s actions are undermining the integrity and objectives of COP29.