PEN’s Free Expression Digest brings you a daily curated round-up of the most important free expression-related stories from around the web. Subscribe here. *This mailing list is currently in BETA as we work out the kinks. Please send your feedback and suggestions to [email protected]

Azerbaijan leader pardons 148 prisoners, including activists
Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev, has pardoned 148 inmates, including 14 activists seen as political prisoners by human rights groups. BBC NEWS

Former managing director of a British soccer club acquitted in Dubai tweet case
The former managing director of British soccer club Leeds United was acquitted Monday of a cybercrime charge over a tweet sent on his behalf while he was held in a Dubai prison, his lawyer said. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Cuba arrests dozens of human rights protesters before Obama’s arrival
Just hours before President Obama landed Sunday in Cuba for his historic visit, Cuban authorities arrested more than 50 dissidents who were marching to demand improved human rights. USA TODAY

North Korea is apparently using sophisticated tech to jail citizens contacting the outside world
Sophisticated mobile surveillance technology capable of recording full conversations, location tracking, and signal jamming is being deployed, according to 17 North Korean defectors interviewed by Amnesty International. VICE NEWS

Afghanistan journalists’ worsening reporting perils
Journalism is an increasingly deadly profession in Afghanistan according to the Afghanistan Journalists Center, based on statistics it released documenting attacks against the media over the past year. HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH

Russian journalists create new independent trade union
Russian journalists have founded a new independent trade union organization to boost professional solidarity and provide more support for reporters working in the country. The union emerged as a response to the growing number of challenges to journalists’ safety and restrictions on access to information. GLOBAL VOICES