Platform

Political Platform of the Azerbaijan National Front

The Azerbaijan National Front, as a pluralistic organization representing various intellectual currents in South Azerbaijan, presents its political program and vision in the following 14 articles:

1. Power belongs to the people. No authority can limit this fundamental principle or undermine the legitimacy of an established democratic government.

2. Formation of the Azerbaijani national government in the historical territories of South Azerbaijan, currently part of Iran, within the framework of international law and based on the right of peoples to self-determination.

3. Adoption and implementation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), as adopted by the United Nations, to safeguard the rights of our citizens.

4. Recognition and enforcement of international conventions protecting the rights of women, children, and persons with disabilities; ensuring the prohibition of torture and the death penalty; and eliminating political, religious, gender-based, and racial discrimination.

5. Freedom of religion and thought is guaranteed through the separation of religion and state. Secularism and ethical governance shall be fundamental principles in state administration and legislation.

6. Freedom of speech, a cornerstone of democracy, will be protected through independent media, including radio, television, print, and digital platforms, free from state control or influence.

7. Environmental protection is a critical global and regional issue. The Azerbaijani government shall prioritize a healthy environment for current and future generations, actively participate in international environmental initiatives, implement state programs to minimize ecological damage from industrial and economic development, and consistently prioritize human well-being.

8. Historical legacy of Azerbaijani Turks: For thousands of years, Azerbaijani Turks have been the majority in the region and founders of great empires and dynasties. Historically, these dynasties demonstrated tolerance and peaceful coexistence with diverse ethnic and religious groups. The independent state of Azerbaijan shall draw from this legacy to ensure the equitable and peaceful development of all communities in South Azerbaijan.

9. Official language and cultural rights: Azerbaijani Turkish shall be the official language in South Azerbaijan. The languages, cultures, and traditions of national minorities are a shared cultural heritage. The state shall ensure that minorities receive education in their native language, preserve their cultural identity, and promote their traditions.

10. Human capital and economic development: Our homeland’s development shall prioritize education, science, and innovation. Investments shall transform Azerbaijan from a resource- and agriculture-based economy into a highly developed industrial nation.

11. Economic progress: Promoting economic growth strengthens the nation’s global influence while addressing social challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

12. Domestic and foreign policy: The government shall base policies on national interests, participate actively in international economic integration, pursue friendship and cooperation abroad, and ensure peaceful relations with neighboring countries.

13. Support for Azerbaijani Turks in Iran: The Turkish population is dispersed throughout Iran. The establishment of a national state in South Azerbaijan shall support oppressed communities, particularly Iranian Turks, defending their rights and providing moral and material assistance as necessary.

14. National symbols and emblems shall be determined by representatives of the people in the future state.

Council of the Azerbaijan National Front
21 March 2003, Malmö, Sweden