Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev’s initiative to declare an amnesty by the end of 2025 demonstrates that the interests of citizens remain at the center of state policy, members of parliament said.
Speaking to Report, Milli Majlis deputy Azer Badamov said the initiative reflects Azerbaijan’s long-standing commitment to the protection of human rights and freedoms.
He noted that the protection of human rights is enshrined in Article 54 of Azerbaijan’s Constitution, adding that nearly one-third of the Basic Law adopted on November 12, 1995, under the leadership of national leader Heydar Aliyev, is dedicated to safeguarding human rights.
“Since the period of Heydar Aliyev’s leadership, Azerbaijan has taken consistent steps to protect human rights and uphold the rule of law,” Badamov said. “It was under his leadership that a moratorium on the death penalty was introduced in 1993, followed by its complete abolition in 1998.”
Amnesty to Affect More Than 20,000 People
Badamov emphasized that the proposed amnesty highlights the high value placed on human life and fundamental freedoms in Azerbaijan.
“2025 has been declared the ‘Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty’ in Azerbaijan. During this year, the country has achieved notable successes in both domestic and foreign policy,” he said.
“The upcoming amnesty will be the largest in terms of scope, affecting more than 20,000 people. This means that happiness will return to over 20,000 families.”
According to the lawmaker, the initiative serves as an example of humanitarian governance and social responsibility.
Continuation of a Humanitarian Policy
Badamov also said President Ilham Aliyev has remained faithful to the ideals of national leader Heydar Aliyev.
“The humanitarian policy whose foundations were laid by Heydar Aliyev is being successfully continued today by President Ilham Aliyev,” he said. “An amnesty of this scale deserves public recognition and appreciation.”
Additional Parliamentary Support
Another Milli Majlis deputy, Vugar Bayramov, also described the amnesty initiative as a significant humanitarian act.
He noted that the proposal coincides with the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty” as well as the 30th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s Constitution.
“Azerbaijan has fully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty,” Bayramov said.
“The amnesty confirms that the policy pursued under the President’s leadership is focused on protecting citizens’ rights. It will bring relief to many families and reflects the humanitarian initiatives consistently supported by President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva.”
Bayramov added that the initiative strengthens the protection of social, economic, and other civil rights and should be regarded as one of the country’s historic steps.
