Azerbaijani police detain an opposition activist during a protest rally in Baku, Azerbaijan on Oct. 20, 2012. (Associated Press Photo)
BY CASEY EDGARIAN
Over the past several years, the post-Soviet petrostate of Azerbaijan has sought to promote a sanitized image of itself through a targeted media campaign. From elaborate architectural investments, such as the $250,000,000 Heydar Aliyev Center, to all-expenses-paid trips for American and European politicians, the ruling regime has used its vast oil wealth in an attempt to polish its bruised image. This comes on the heels of a slew of exposés criticizing widespread corruption  and an abominable human rights record, including the persecution of journalists in this Caspian state.
The most recent public relations stunt has been the country’s “Land of Toleranceâ€
