Prison & Probation Reform: A new Council of Europe report says Azerbaijan’s prison population is still dangerously high, with overcrowding linked to harsh sentencing and a weak parole system. Cultural Heritage & Digital Access: Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage protection agency won an international award for public engagement, including digital services via the MyCulture portal and its “Friend of Heritage” volunteer program. Cultural Diplomacy: The Writer’s House is launching “Azerbaijani Culture for Global Envoys,” a course for foreign diplomats in Baku to support the “Azerbaijani Culture – 2040” concept. Heritage in Focus: The “Stone Chronicle of Karabakh” photography competition was announced, inviting photographers to document historical, cultural, and religious monuments in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories. Regional Cultural Ties: Azerbaijan and Georgia held a new round of talks to expand cooperation in culture, including libraries and museums. Arts & Festivals: Gabala’s 15th International Music Festival opens with a star-studded ballet gala concert on July 29. Literature: Vagif Poetry Days run July 16–18 in Gazakh and Shusha, with new initiatives including a “Book Stop” pavilion. Tourism & Civic Debate: Viral footage of Indian tourists chanting in a protected Azerbaijan museum has sparked a wider conversation about respectful behavior at cultural sites. Sports & Lifestyle: World Nomad Games cuisine competition will feature Azerbaijani chefs, with nomadic dishes presented in a modern style.