Magnitsky Awards
Winner’s Bio

Ali Karimli is a prominent Azerbaijani pro-democracy politician, human rights defender, and the current chairman of the Azerbaijani Popular Front Party (APFP). For decades, he has stood as a leading voice of political opposition against the authoritarian administration of President Ilham Aliyev, advocating for democratic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and civil liberties.

In November 2025, Karimli was arrested by state security forces during a sweeping crackdown on dissent and charged with attempting to overthrow the constitutional order—charges that he, his party, and international observers reject as entirely fabricated and politically motivated.

As of August 2026, his pre-trial detention has been extended through November 2026. Ali Karmili has been severe mistreated in custody, and his health is deteriorating rapidly. The European Parliament and global watchdogs recognise him as a political prisoner and continue to demand his immediate release.