BERLIN. – An atmosphere of fear and violation reigns in Azerbaijan, as the journalists criticizing the state, are threatened to arrest, torture and even kill, German Zeit newspaper reports quoting Azerbaijani Bizim Yol.

“Being former vassal of Moscow, Azerbaijan continues to be an ‘unknown land’ (Terra incognita) for the West.

Eurovision-2012 song contest is highly confidential in Azerbaijan. The state rich in oil and gas tries to attract the tourists through the contest,” the newspaper reports.

To note, Azerbaijan, hosting the Eurovision-2012, was for many times criticized for extensive violation of human rights. It is on the 152 position on freedom of speech. Besides, Freedom House has condemned recently Azerbaijan for limiting civil rights and freedom.