Former German Lawmakers Face Trial Over Alleged Azerbaijani Bribery Scheme

The trial marks the first time in Germany's history that former Bundestag members are prosecuted for corruption tied to foreign influence.

Former CDU and CSU lawmakers Axel Fischer and Eduard Lintner are accused of accepting bribes to act in Azerbaijan's interests within the Europarat (PACE).
Prosecutors allege Fischer received over €84,000 between 2011 and 2016, while Lintner is accused of distributing millions from Azerbaijani sources to influence European parliamentarians.
The late CDU politician Karin Strenz allegedly received €150,000 for supporting Azerbaijan's positions in PACE; her estate is under scrutiny for potential asset recovery.
The case highlights Azerbaijan's extensive efforts, including cash payments and luxury gifts, to suppress criticism of its human rights record in international forums.
Both Fischer and Lintner deny the allegations, with Fischer's defense claiming insufficient evidence and accusing prosecutors of overreach.