Theo Clerc, a French street artist, has been pardoned by Azerbaijan's president after spending 422 days in prison for creating graffiti in a metro station. French authorities emphasized his discriminatory treatment compared to local co-defendants, who received fines. The French Foreign Minister expressed pride in the diplomatic efforts that contributed to Clerc's release, highlighting the continued risks faced by citizens in Azerbaijan, where legal protections are minimal. This event underscores both the challenges of international diplomacy and the importance of vigilance regarding the safety of artists and citizens abroad.
"French authorities had complained in September that Clerc was submitted to discriminatory treatment, because two codefendants who were accused of the same offense but who were not French were only fined."
"It is the honor and pride of French diplomacy and its representatives to have worked tirelessly for his release, Barrot said."
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