The government of Azerbaijan has banned foreign radio broadcasts.

The communication ministry has said the decision to ban foreign radio services on local frequencies was made to take effect at the start of the new year.

The most influential world broadcasters, the BBC and Voice of America have had their licences revoked.

Domestic TV and radio broadcasts in Azerbaijan will also face stronger regulations, which will include broadcasts being made only in the language of Azerbaijan.

Some news and educational broadcasts on TV will be exempt from the language ban, but must feature Azerbaijani subtitles.