FREE THÉO CLERC: A CALL FOR JUSTICE AND CLEMENCY
https://www.change.org/p/free-th%C3%A9o-clerc-a-call-for-justice-and-clemency?source_location=tag_
Since March 31, 2024, our brother, friend, and colleague, Théo Clerc, has been imprisoned in Azerbaijan. Théo, 38 years old, is a well-known graffiti artist and builder based in Paris. During his trip to Baku with two friends, he painted graffiti on a subway car in the city. This artistic work is something he has done in many countries around the world, often receiving positive feedback.
However, after finishing their artwork and preparing to leave the country, Théo and his two friends were detained by the police. His friends, an Australian and a New Zealander, had their passports confiscated and have been ordered to remain in the country ever since. They should be able to return to their country, if all goes well, after the appeal. They will be fined 3,600 euros each on top of the 8,000 euros already paid collectively. Théo, on the other hand, was incarcerated and recently sentenced to three years in prison.
The severity of this sentence feels disproportionate and unjust. Théo faces a much harsher punishment, seemingly linked to his French nationality. This unequal treatment is hard to comprehend and accept. We strongly believe that, according to Azerbaijani law itself, Théo should not have been sentenced to prison.
Théo is not a criminal. He is a passionate artist who never intended to harm or disrespect the people of Azerbaijan. In fact, he wrote a personal letter to President Ilham Aliyev expressing his deep apologies. His act, though impulsive, was purely artistic and had no political intent. Graffiti art is increasingly recognized worldwide as a legitimate form of urban expression, showcased in galleries and cultural institutions.
Since his arrest, Théo has endured difficult conditions in prison. He shares a small cell with two other inmates and must pay for basic necessities. The food he receives comes only from the families of other prisoners, and he is isolated in an environment where he does not understand the language or the cultural norms.
We are deeply concerned for his physical and mental well-being. Théo deserves to come home to his family and friends. He poses no threat to Azerbaijan’s security or sovereignty.
We appeal to the compassion of President Ilham Aliyev and the Azerbaijani authorities to reconsider his sentence and allow his release. In these times of diplomatic tension between France and Azerbaijan, this humanitarian gesture could help ease tensions and pave the way for more constructive dialogue.
We are asking for your support to call for Théo's release. By signing this petition, you are supporting a man whose only "crime" was to express his creativity through art. We hope that justice and mercy will prevail.
Thank you for your support.