Freedom for Ali Karimli! Statement of the Coordination Center of Azerbaijani Political Migrants (ASIMKOM) on the Repressions in Azerbaijan

In recent years, the mass political repressions observed in Azerbaijan have entered a new and increasingly dangerous phase. The issue of political prisoners — whose number is currently reported to be close to 400 — demonstrates, according to critics, that the country’s legal and judicial systems have been fully transformed into instruments of political pressure. The persistent suppression of freedom of speech and expression, the dismantling of independent media, and the systematic destruction of the foundations of civil society raise serious concerns that democratic institutions are being fundamentally undermined.

In this extremely tense and unfree political environment, the arrest of Ali Karimli, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Popular Front Party — one of the leading opposition parties in the country — on entirely fabricated and politically motivated charges demonstrates not only the continuation of repression, but also its evolution into an even harsher and more ruthless form. This development is regarded as a severe blow to the pillars of democratic society and as a new culmination point in the long-running campaign of political persecution.

The targeting of one of the most prominent figures of the opposition is not merely the persecution of an individual; it is part of a broader and deliberate strategy aimed at completely eliminating political competition in Azerbaijan and dismantling mechanisms of democratic governance. It has become evident to all that this step is a clear indication that the legal and political framework of de facto authoritarian rule in the country is reaching completion.

Furthermore, the systematic neutralization of pro-Western political forces and the silencing of their leaders through politically motivated arrests indicate the intention of the Azerbaijani authorities to erect a barrier against democratic values in the South Caucasus region. There is no doubt that this process poses a serious threat both to the country’s internal political landscape and to the future of democratic transformation in the broader region.

The arrest of an opposition leader should raise deep concern not only within Azerbaijan, but also among the international community. This event is being viewed as a turning point for the future of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in the country — yet another painful manifestation of a consistent and purposeful policy aimed at suppressing the political will of society.

ASIMKOM calls on European political institutions, leaders of democratic states, and international organizations working in the fields of human rights and democracy to take an adequate stance in response to the deepening totalitarian tendencies in Azerbaijan, and to make the elimination of this trend a condition in their contacts and cooperation with the Azerbaijani authorities.

ASİMKOM