About

Our Heritage: Justice as a Tradition

The pursuit of justice is embedded in the genetic code of our family. Luciano is the great-grandson of the renowned philanthropist Haji Mamish, who restored the historic Juma Mosque in Shamakhi. Built by Abu Muslim in 743 AD, this sanctuary stood as the first residence of Islam in Azerbaijan.

Following the devastating earthquake of 1902, the mosque lay in complete ruin. Haji Mamish and his son, Haji Osman, took on the mission of its rebirth: they donated their entire financial fortune and provided every single stone from their own quarries**, fully securing the sanctuary’s restoration. The project was led by Azerbaijan’s first academically trained architects, Ziver-bey Ahmedbeyov and Józef Płoszko.

Contribution to World Culture

Haji Mamish was a patron of the arts. He was among the select honorary guests at a reception hosted by the famous Mahmud Agha in honor of Alexandre Dumas (père). This event is vividly described by the French classic author in his book “Le Caucase”.

Furthermore, Haji Mamish financed the construction of the first theater in Azerbaijan (Shamakhi, 1858).

Humanism Without Borders

A testament to his humanity occurred during a pilgrimage to Mecca. In an Arab country, Haji Mamish witnessed the brutal beating of a Jewish slave. Without hesitation, he purchased the suffering man, saving him from death and granting him his freedom. Haji Mamish bought a camel equipped with a palanquin for the wounded man and took him under his care. The freed man completed the pilgrimage with him, converted to Islam, and returned with his benefactor to Shamakhi (Gushchu village), where he was given a house, land, and was accepted into the family. This act stands as proof that for our family, humanity has always transcended nationality and religion.

Honor, Heritage, and Principles

The Act of Defiance: Hadji Mamish

In 1920, as the Red Army occupied Azerbaijan, an era of total dispossession began. The ancestral estate of Hadji Mamish in the village of Kushchu was confiscated and turned into a communist headquarters. Realizing that material wealth would only bring suffering to his family under the new regime, the wise Hadji Mamish hid a portion of gold for his descendants’ survival and buried the rest deep in the mountains, forever out of the reach of the occupiers.

His final act of protest was biblical in its scale: he paid the legendary insurgents (abrek) — Gachag Seyidkulu and Sunduli Sary Aly — to burn his entire estate to the ground. He chose to see his property reduced to ash rather than allow it to serve the enemy. Seyidkulu’s fighters continued their armed resistance until 1936, choosing a dignified death in battle over the chains of the Soviet regime.

The Golden Belt and the USSR KGB

This legacy resurfaced in 1982 when the KGB began a hunt for Hadji Mamish’s legendary golden belt. When Feyruz Mustafayev, the First Secretary of the Shemakha District Committee, was ordered to seize the relic from Aga Mamishov (Luciano’s father), Aga replied:

“We have two jewels left: myself and my sister. During the terrible famine following World War II, my mother broke pieces of gold from that belt to trade for bread so that we might survive.”

 

This inner strength and uncompromising honesty so moved Mustafayev that in 1984, he personally vouched for Aga Mamishov, appointing him to lead the region’s largest enterprise with the words: “I will stand behind you like a mountain.”

War Against the System: Aga Mamishov vs. Ramiz Mehtiyev

Aga Mamishov’s true battle began during the privatization era. He found himself standing alone against the “Grey Cardinal” and head of the Russian agent network in Azerbaijan — Ramiz Mehtiyev.

Mehtiyev and his inner circle attempted to plunder state property and strip ordinary citizens of their rightful shares. Aga Mamishov, fully aware of the scale of the threat, refused to allow this robbery to take place, even at the cost of his family’s well-being and his children’s future. He remained faithful to the code of honor established by Hadji Mamish. He passed away in 2019, undefeated and deeply respected—a symbol of the honor of Shemakha.

The Legacy: Law and Justice

Luciano Shirvani continues this path. The friendship between Rajeb Mustafayev, the grandson of Feyruz Mustafayev, and Luciano is a living tribute to the giants who placed principle above fear.

“Everything can be relative, but law and justice — never!” is not just a slogan. It is the DNA of a family that has never bowed to occupiers, the KGB, or corrupt regimes.

Public Activity: After completing his service in the Special Forces, Luciano created the country’s first national social network to ensure information security and published sharp political satire.

Confrontation with the “Kremlin’s Viceroy” His active stance placed Luciano on the “blacklist” of Ramiz Mehdiyev (1995–2019) — the all-powerful “Grey Cardinal” and handler of Russia’s spy network in Azerbaijan.

The Family Conflict: Origins of the Stand

In 1995, the powerful official Mehdiyev destroyed the career of Luciano’s father, Aga Mamishov. The conflict arose from a principled stance: Aga Mamishov categorically refused to allow Mehdiyev to embezzle state assets and the property of ordinary citizens during the privatization process.

Aga Mamishov was a distinguished civil servant, whose impeccable service was recognized at the highest level—he was personally awarded orders, medals, and state honors by President Heydar Aliyev.

The retaliation for refusing to participate in corruption was severe. Using threats of violence against his son, Mehdiyev illegally seized the family estate—a 50-hectare farm located in the most picturesque foothills of Shamakhi. Today, this prime asset is valued at tens of millions.

Justice Served: On October 14, 2025, Ramiz Mehdiyev was arrested for high treason.

The Creation of the First National Social Network (2008)

In 2008, Luciano initiated the creation of Azerbaijan’s first national social network. At that time, the Russian platform ok.ru held significant sway over Azerbaijani society. Luciano characterized this influence as “hybrid warfare” waged by Russian intelligence against Azerbaijan, publicly condemning the authorities and accusing them of inaction.

Together with his associates, he launched the country’s first independent social media platform. To demonstrate to the government that their intentions were purely patriotic—aimed at shielding the state from Russian influence rather than undermining it—he named the network destek.az, which translates from Azerbaijani as “Support.” The underlying message was clear: “We support our country, our people, and our statehood against foreign influence.”

Luciano successfully rallied representatives of the arts, culture, and the country’s elite to the platform. The network gained rapid traction, featuring a messenger, a news feed, and functionality that was advanced for its time. Prominent public figures began establishing their presence on the national network.

However, just a few months later, as the network began to expand its geography, it was targeted. The platform was completely destroyed, the entire database was wiped, and the domain was blocked by unknown perpetrators.

Marka.Az and Investigative Journalism

Following the destruction of the social network, Luciano launched his own news portal, Marka.Az, where he began publishing exclusive interviews and breaking news. He was the first in the Azerbaijani media landscape to introduce the practice of validating sources with video evidence—an innovation specifically praised by the former Minister of Education and Luciano’s close friend, Professor Firudin Jalilov.

Luciano published an explosive exclusive interview with a man named Eyvaz, who revealed how he carried out secret assignments for Abulfaz Elchibey in 1990, on the eve of the January tragedy in Baku. This served as confirmation that the provocation was organized by Elchibey—who a year later became the President of Azerbaijan and plunged the country into a civil war. Luciano has always considered him, and continues to consider him to this day, a recruited KGB agent. He identifies Elchibey as the primary cause of the tragedies that befell Azerbaijan following its independence.

However, the portal ultimately shared the fate of the social network. The site was destroyed, and the domain was, by some “miracle,” re-registered to a stranger’s name; to this day, it remains unused.

Chronicle of Risk (2012–2014):

Defense of the Mosque (2012)

Luciano stood against the distortion of the historic 8th-century sanctuary. This site held profound personal significance as a family relic, having been restored by his great-grandfather, Haji Mamish.

The Consequences: An assassination attempt was orchestrated against him. Luciano was rushed to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with a concussion, a severe comminuted fracture of the nose, and multiple other grievous injuries. The persecution did not stop there: just a few days later, his apartment came under gunfire.

Civil Courage: Defending a Legend (January 2013)

In January 2013, Luciano stood up to defend the Secretary of the Union of Cinematographers and People’s Artist, Rasim Balayev — an icon often hailed as the “Azerbaijani Alain Delon.” The actor was facing a fabricated criminal investigation.

Luciano organized a protest rally, triggering an immediate backlash. He faced severe personal pressure directly from the powerful Head of the Presidential Administration, the “gray cardinal” Ramiz Mehdiyev, who demanded the event be cancelled. However, Luciano refused to yield or be intimidated by the most influential figure in the government. His unwavering stance led to a victory: the criminal case against the cinema legend was suspended, and only after justice was served was the protest called off.

During that tense period, the renowned Azerbaijani poet and publicist Murad Kohnagala wrote the following regarding the phenomenon of Luciano’s untouchability:

“Many wonder why Luciano has not yet been arrested. They will never arrest him, because they understand perfectly well that in prison, he would start a riot. They will kill him!”

Battle Against Oligarchy: Saving the “Alley of Martyrs” (2013)

For Luciano, this battle was deeply personal. Buried in the “Alley of Martyrs”—which powerful officials planned to demolish to build a hotel—was his close childhood friend, who had been killed by Russian snipers in Karabakh.

In 2013, Luciano stood alone against the system to protect the memory of his friend and other war heroes. The mastermind behind the demolition plan was the Minister of Emergency Situations—an oligarch whose activities are detailed in dozens of US diplomatic cables published by WikiLeaks.

Defense Strategy: Luciano obtained a covert audio recording of the Deputy Mayor of Shamakhi confirming the corrupt plan and exposed it at an urgent press conference.

The Impact: Following the exposure, Luciano faced severe persecution (“a hunt”). However, through strategic tactics, he managed to escalate the issue directly to the President. The demolition was halted immediately, and President Ilham Aliyev personally ordered the full restoration of the memorial instead.

WikiLeaks References: 06BAKU362 | 06BAKU411 | 06BAKU1327 | 06BAKU1367 | 07BAKU533 | 07BAKU886 | 08BAKU81 | 09BAKU188 | 10BAKU127

Case: Saving the Shamakhi Observatory

In 2013, while working as a multimedia reporter for Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), Luciano uncovered a corruption scheme: the construction of a luxury hotel began in the protected zone of the unique Shamakhi Observatory. Light pollution and dust threatened to permanently blind the scientific center’s telescopes.Luciano launched a series of investigations, mobilized scientists, and proved the devastating impact of the construction. The system tried to stop him: after the second report, he was offered a large bribe for his silence. He refused and continued his work.

The resonance became so strong that, despite resistance from influential officials, the issue was raised at the Presidium of the Academy of Sciences. Eventually, the President of the country intervened personally, and the illegal construction was frozen.

“The Valley of Russians”: Released a documentary exposing Russia’s geopolitical interference.

Defense of Rights Defenders: Physically blocked an illegal search of Leyla Yunus’s apartment (Knight of the French Legion of Honor).

In September 2014, under imminent threat of arrest, Luciano left Baku.

Luciano operates on the global stage, utilizing international law mechanisms to hold state systems accountable.

ICC Lawsuit: War Crimes in Chechnya As part of an international group of lawyers led by Said-Emin Ibragimov (President of the International Association “Peace and Human Rights”), Luciano participated in preparing a lawsuit for the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

The lawsuit targeted Russia’s top military and political leadership, charging them with war crimes, crimes against humanity, launching two illegal military invasions of Chechnya, and the genocide of the Chechen people. This marked the first historical precedent where the ICC accepted a case filing against the Russian Federation.

The Ali Batayev Case: Luciano played a key role in the campaign to protect Ali Batayev, a Chechen refugee who held a 60-day hunger strike in a deportation prison.

During a visit to Ali Bataev. Administrative Detention Center (ZAA), Zurich.

Humanitarian Intervention While Ali Batayev was held in isolation and denied basic rights, Luciano personally secured his access to medical examinations and provided him with mobile communication, restoring his contact with the outside world and legal defense.

Political Victory Luciano organized a series of rallies in collaboration with the “European House of Peace” and addressed two personal letters to the President of the Swiss Confederation, Alain Berset. President Berset officially replied to the appeal. Just days after receiving the President’s response, Batayev was released from detention.

International Impact This case set a precedent. As a result of the campaign, Amnesty International issued a bulletin calling on European countries to halt the deportation of North Caucasus natives to Russia.

Supreme Court Precedent (2023)

The Attack: A group of 21 Russian citizens residing in three European countries, supporters of the Putin regime, filed a complaint with the Swiss Office of the Attorney General against Luciano. They accused him of “incitement to hatred” due to his active support for Ukraine.

The Process: The Attorney General’s Office dismissed the complaint, ruling that Luciano’s actions did not constitute a crime.

The Appeal: The accusers appealed this decision to the highest authority—the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland.

The Verdict: The Supreme Court finally rejected their appeal, fully vindicating Luciano and establishing an important legal precedent.

The Defense: Throughout this process, Luciano Shirvani was defended by Daniel Schütz, one of Switzerland’s most famous attorneys.

Success in Migration Law Luciano has helped secure refugee status for dozens of families in Switzerland, France, and other EU countries, successfully preventing the illegal deportation of numerous migrants.

The Minister’s Case (2019) Luciano conducted an independent journalistic investigation into a tragedy from 1992: the shooting of a residential house resulting in the death of a family.

• The Strike: He brought the key witness (the senior investigator) onto a live broadcast.

• Principles:

  The mastermind behind the house explosion, former Minister of Internal Affairs Iskander Hamidov, attempted to negotiate a “deal” through dozens of intermediaries. He persistently asked for just one phone call.

  Luciano’s response was categorical:

  “I do not conduct negotiations in the shadows, especially with killers of women and children. If he has something to say to me, I am ready for a dialogue, but only on live broadcast, in front of the people.”

  This investigation sparked a massive public reaction. Hamidov attempted to justify himself, but failed. On February 26, 2020, he died of a stroke.

• Result: The historical truth was proven publicly.

The Investigation That Broke the Mafia: Report in “Der Spiegel”

In 2013, Luciano Shirvani launched a documentary series focused on political migrants from Azerbaijan. The project initially centered on a political refugee and veteran of the First Nagorno-Karabakh War who had immigrated to Germany. However, during filming, Shirvani began an independent investigation into the roots of the First Nagorno-Karabakh War, the various coups d’état in Azerbaijan, and the hidden role of the individual he was filming.

“The Kelbajar Knot” and “The Grand Game”

The investigation spanned four years, resulting in a two-part documentary. During the premiere of the first part in Frankfurt, Shirvani met with representatives of the European Coordination Center (ECC). One of the “hero’s” closest associates handed Shirvani a business card featuring the brand “Sirab”—a trademark belonging to the influential Azerbaijani mafia clan led by Vasif Talibov. This discovery shifted the focus of the investigation, as Shirvani began parallel research into the ECC and its potential links to organized crime.

The Confrontation in Cologne

The premiere of the second part was scheduled for 2018 in Cologne. On the eve of the event, the leadership of the ECC demanded a private screening in a hotel. The film exposed the dark, covert connections between certain political groups and their alleged collusion with foreign interests.

Upon seeing the truth on screen, an individual associated with the mafia brand physically attacked Shirvani. A violent confrontation was narrowly avoided. During the clash, the assailant threw a lighter at Shirvani. Picking it up, Luciano declared: “I will set you on fire with this very lighter. You have just confirmed all of my suspicions.” The following morning, Shirvani canceled the premiere and returned to Switzerland to launch an intensive investigation, mobilizing his entire network of informants and high-level contacts.

Public Impact and Evidence

A year later, Shirvani began publishing the findings of his investigation on his “Marka Film Production” channel, sparking widespread public resonance. Broadcasting almost daily, he presented shocking and irrefutable evidence, including live interviews with victims of the criminal organization. These revelations were met with intense threats, blackmail, and intimidation.

Results of the Investigation
Luciano Shirvani’s work ultimately exposed a sophisticated transnational criminal network in Europe. This organization was involved not only in human trafficking but also in embedding agents of authoritarian regimes into the European Union under the guise of refugees.

“Der Spiegel” Coverage: The investigation gained international prominence through an extensive report in the renowned German news magazine Der Spiegel.

Federal Police Operation in Germany: The evidence provided by Shirvani led to a major operation by the German Federal Police (Bundespolizei). The raid, which took place in November 2019, involved 180 officers searching 13 properties across several federal states. It targeted a gang accused of smuggling people from Eastern Europe to be used as temporary workers.

Threats and State Protection: Throughout the investigation, Luciano faced severe pressure, including numerous death threats. The danger escalated when one of the group’s ringleaders repeatedly traveled to Switzerland. Consequently, the Swiss authorities placed Luciano under state protection.

Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (Bern). Witness testimony regarding the international criminal network uncovered by Luciano Shirvani’s investigation.

Justice and Testimony: Following an official request from German prosecutors, Luciano Shirvani provided expert witness testimony regarding the international criminal network at the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland in Bern.

The Guardian of Truth in an Ocean of Disinformation

Luciano did not merely study the modern history of Azerbaijan and the Caucasus at the end of the 20th century—he deconstructed the lies of an entire era. By exposing political crimes, he demolished the myths crafted by intelligence networks and disinformation agents. His investigative series, titled “The Azerbaijan WikiLeaks,” remains the only source where documented facts and living testimonies have triumphed over decades of state-sponsored propaganda.

The Ultimate Exclusive Archive and Explosive Revelations Luciano possesses a unique video archive that intelligence agencies have hunted for decades. These are the raw, living testimonies of those at the epicenter of history:

• The Surat Huseynov Personal Archive: A complete, unfiltered confession from the man who held the secret keys to power.

• The Tragedy of the Huseynov Family: Luciano investigated and exposed the truth behind the death of Surat Huseynov’s father, whose life was cut short by medical sabotage (“murder by medication”) under the Elchibey administration.

• The Siege of the Ancestral Home: Luciano published exclusive footage of the barbaric machine-gunning of Surat’s father’s house while the family was holding a funeral wake. This exposed the true face of those who fought Huseynov using methods of state terror.

• The Investigation of the Century: The Garakend Tragedy. A meticulous breakdown of the November 20, 1991 terror attack (the downing of the MI-8 helicopter), where Luciano revealed the KGB’s role in decapitating Azerbaijan’s political elite.

• The Justice for Mehman Alekperov: Restoring the legacy of the national hero who was shot 17 times in the back by traitors.

Surat Huseynov: The Occupiers’ Worst Nightmare It took Luciano nearly three years of daily effort to convince the legendary Colonel Surat Huseynov to break his 30-year silence. In a world where journalists saw the Colonel only as a financial opportunity, Luciano approached him with a code of honor:

“Respected Surat, I do not look at you as an ATM. I am the son of Aga Mamishov. Ask anyone about my father, my family, and the lineage I represent. I only want the truth for the sake of our history.”

The Legends Unveiled:

• The Raid on Zazaly: Huseynov remains the only MP in history to storm a Russian military base and take the officer corps hostage to arm his nation’s defense. While generals hid, he stood his ground, firing his Mauser at attacking “Crocodile” helicopters.

• Revenge for Khojaly: Under his command, the Ganja battalion annihilated the “Arabo” terrorist organization, forcing Armenia into three days of national mourning.

The Two-Year Siege and the “Nuclear Effect” Two years of nightly Skype conversations led to a confession that acted as a nuclear explosion in society, triggering major geopolitical shifts across the Caucasus. Huseynov revealed the “anatomy of history,” including private, one-on-one conversations with Heydar Aliyev.

 

Guardian of State Secrets Acting in the interest of national security, Luciano published only 4 out of the 6 parts of the documentary series. The remaining 2 parts, containing information of immense strategic weight, have been placed in a secure archive. Luciano gave his word: these facts, which could be exploited by foreign adversaries, will only be revealed when the statute of limitations expires or the time is right. These secrets continue to disturb the peace of many powerful figures today.

The Showdown of 2019 and Loyalty to Principles In 2019, foreign intelligence services tried to lure Luciano into a trap with bribery and “agent lists,” but he outmaneuvered them. Later, when Huseynov succumbed to outside pressure and broke their exclusivity agreement by granting interviews to the BBC and Meydan TV, Luciano made a definitive choice. True to his code of honor, he chose to terminate the historical project rather than allow his relationship with Huseynov to descend into negativity. By doing so, he showed respect for Surat’s early service to the Motherland, choosing to preserve the image of the hero rather than engage in a conflict that would tarnish that legacy.

The Al Pacino of Azerbaijan
Huseynov’s death washed away all personal grievances. In his final tribute, Luciano wrote:
“He was the Al Pacino of Azerbaijan. A man who sacrificed his billions and his very life for his Motherland. In my memory, he will forever remain a Hero.” This narrative focuses on historical restoration rather than mere reporting. It demonstrates a commitment to preserving the integrity of primary sources and underscores the immense responsibility of handling information that defines a nation’s legacy.

A Personal Stand Against Political Revenge

In October 2021, the third President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, returned to his homeland and was immediately arrested. Instead of the rule of law, he faced inhumane treatment and psychological torture behind bars. For Luciano, this was not just a political event—it was a call to action to defend a friend and a reformer.

Immediate Action: The Embassy Protest

On October 21, 2021, shortly after the arrest, Luciano launched an active defense campaign. He held a solo picket in front of the Georgian Embassy, covering the building’s entrance with “Free Misha” posters. From this symbolic location, he recorded a video appeal to the citizens of Georgia, condemning the government’s actions and calling for solidarity.

The Price of Resistance During his imprisonment, Mikheil Saakashvili undertook several hunger strikes to protest his mistreatment. The longest lasted 51 days (October–November 2021), bringing him to a critical condition. Despite this, the pressure from the authorities continued.

January 4, 2023: Solidarity Over Celebration On his own birthday

January 4, 2023, Luciano organized a rally in the center of Bern. This demonstration united the Georgian, Ukrainian, and Chechen diasporas, along with Swiss human rights activists, in a powerful show of support.

Explaining why he chose this day for a protest, the founder stated:

“I cannot celebrate my birthday while my friend Mikheil Saakashvili, whom I consider a brother, is being subjected to torture and is fighting for his life.”

Our Ongoing Mission We continue to join global actions and work with international institutions to demand justice. Defending Mikheil Saakashvili is defending the values of On freedom and dignity against authoritarian revenge.

Literary Creation: Poetry and Publicism

Luciano is a writer, publicist, and poet who has mastered the art of words. He is the author of sharp satirical articles and over 700 poetic works in various genres. A special place in his oeuvre is occupied by the complex classical meter of Eastern poetry—Aruz.

Triumph in Milan (2013) Luciano’s poetry has received recognition at the highest European level. One of his poems was set to music and performed on the stage of the legendary Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan. The premiere took place under the direction of Professor David Gualtieri with the participation of the Vladimir Delman Choir.

Circle of the Chosen Luciano’s creative path was paved through close friendship and mentorship with great masters of literature. He developed his craft alongside the National Poet Fikret Goja, the renowned playwright Vagif Samedoglu, and the great poet and master of the Aruz genre, Haji Elemdar Mahir.

International Publication In 2013, an anthology of Azerbaijani poetry was published in Italy for the first time. This prestigious collection included 10 poems and one mini-poem by Luciano, translated into Italian.

Cultural Impact: National Television Appearance

Luciano Shirvani’s creative endeavors and his journey to Milan captured the interest of major media outlets. Upon his return, he was invited as a guest of honor on the Public Television of Azerbaijan (İTV) to discuss his international activities and cultural projects.

The broadcast featured a historic encounter with the legendary People’s Poet of Azerbaijan, Fikret Goja. During the program, in a moment of great warmth and mutual respect, the poet personally asked Luciano to recite his masterpiece, “Waltz.” With his characteristic wit, Fikret Goja joked that he “did not want to ruin his own verses with his voice.”

This request carried significant weight. The great poet had previously undergone a serious throat surgery following a severe illness. During that critical time, by the personal order of the President of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev, the presidential aircraft was dispatched to fly Fikret Goja to Turkey for urgent medical care. While the state-funded treatment saved his life, it left the poet with a distinct, husky voice.

By entrusting Luciano with the recitation of his poem, Fikret Goja showed immense confidence in Luciano’s ability to deliver the depth of his words. Later, Luciano brought this poem to life visually, releasing a music video for “Waltz” filmed in Milan across his social media platforms, where it resonated deeply with a global audience.

Action Beyond Words: Humanitarian Mission

Luciano’s work in protecting human rights extends far beyond courtrooms; he is present wherever people are most in need of help and protection.

Voice of Truth at Bundesplatz (March 19, 2022)

A historic day. The square in front of the Federal Palace was packed, with Switzerland’s political elite and Western ambassadors in the front rows. The event culminated in a joint address by Swiss President Ignazio Cassis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Immediately following the heads of state, Luciano Shirvani took the stage. Broadcast live on national TV (SRF), looking straight into the eyes of Europe’s top diplomats, he was unafraid to break protocol.

First, he delivered a stinging rebuke:

“European politicians remind me of an ostrich burying its head in the sand. But hiding will not save you.”

He then voiced the most critical demand of the time — to immediately close the sky over Ukraine — and ended with a stark warning:

“If you do not stop Putin in Ukraine, they will come here — to Europe. War will knock on your doors too.”

Humanitarian Hub in Bern (2022). Immediately after the war began, Luciano co-organized an information point at the Bern train station and managed a charity shop. For over a year, this initiative operated daily, providing refugees not only with free clothing and essentials but also with primary legal aid.

Missions Under Fire: Kyiv (2023) In 2023, amidst the intense bombing of Kyiv, Luciano visited Ukraine twice on humanitarian missions. These trips into a high-risk zone demonstrated his personal commitment to supporting those in mortal danger.

The Philosophy of Action: God in the Heart, Not in Fear

Luciano Shirvani holds an uncompromising stance against all forms of religious fanaticism. Although ethnically Muslim, he leads a strictly secular lifestyle, guided by a clear principle: “My religion is my actions.” His faith is built on love and consciousness, rather than manipulation and fear.

“My God is not in the heavens or in dogmas—He is in my heart and in my soul. I am a Caucasian, an Azerbaijani, and Switzerland is my home today. I do not fear the Creator, because it is impossible to fear someone you love and whose mutual love you trust. Does a child fear their mother? My conscience is clear, and if paradise were to be filled with mindless fanatics, I would have no desire to be there,” Luciano states.

The Heritage of Heroes: From Babak to Nasimi

For Luciano, his spiritual compass is set by the great Babak Khorramdin, who fought for 22 years against the occupation of the Arab Caliphate to protect the identity and land of Azerbaijan.

“My hero is Babak. He and the great Azerbaijani poet Nasimi were executed by the most brutal methods for their loyalty to the truth and their motherland. Their will for freedom is what defines my path today.”

Azerbaijan: A Global Benchmark for Multiculturalism

Luciano frequently highlights Azerbaijan as a unique country where tolerance is a national trait. It is a rare state with a Muslim majority where Jewish communities have felt at home for centuries. This fact was confirmed at the PACE podium by the former Chief Rabbi of Israel, Yisrael Meir Lau, who noted that Azerbaijan provided refuge for 55,000 Jews during the Holocaust. Luciano sacredly honors the memory of the National Hero of Azerbaijan—Albert Agarunov, an ethnic Jew whose monument in Baku stands as a symbol of the unbreakable brotherhood between nations.

Defying the Iranian Regime and Brotherhood with Gary Tabach

One of the most daring acts in Luciano’s biography was his appearance on Iranian State Television. When the host attempted to condemn Azerbaijan for its partnership with Israel, Luciano cut off the provocation and unfurled the Israeli flag on live broadcast, stating that in his home, the flags of Israel, Azerbaijan, and Switzerland stand together as symbols of friendship. Following this gesture, Luciano was placed on the watchlists of the Iranian intelligence services (ETELAAT), whose threats he treats with open contempt.

This unprecedented act of courage earned the admiration of Gary Tabach—a Captain (Retired) of the United States Navy and former Chief of Staff of the NATO Military Liaison Mission. Gary Tabach shared the photo of Luciano from the broadcast and wrote: “Now this is a hero. My friend.”

Gary Tabach and Luciano share a close bond of brotherhood. As a sign of profound respect, Luciano presented Gary with a Caucasian Kindjal (dagger).

In Caucasian tradition, gifting a dagger is the ultimate symbol of trust—it is reserved only for those considered a brother, a person of honor who would never betray. This recognition from a high-ranking international officer confirms Luciano’s standing as a man whose bravery is respected by global security experts.

Exposing Hypocrisy: Radicals in Europe

Luciano is one of the harshest critics of Islamists who seek refuge in Europe while attempting to impose medieval orders upon it.

“It is the height of hypocrisy: radicals seek protection in secular Europe rather than in Sharia-governed Afghanistan. They call the West ‘infidels’ while enjoying its freedoms. They smash televisions with axes, claiming them to be sinful, yet film it on iPhones and upload it to Facebook—platforms created by those they curse. If Sharia is so dear to you, why do you not live where it rules?”

National Security and Lessons from History

Luciano advocates for the strict isolation of radicals to stop the “brainwashing” of society. He often cites the former head of the National Security Service of Ichkeria, Lecha Khultygov, an intellectual who was assassinated for his fight against Wahhabism:

“Our wolf does not wander into their Arabian desert, so let them not bring their camel to our mountains. We will not allow our society to turn into a jungle without laws. We will remain true to our roots while preserving progress and human dignity.”

The Call of Duty In August 2021, as a gesture of solidarity, Luciano accepted citizenship of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (CRI), clearly defining his moral stance:

“I stand with the murdered, not the murderers.”

In August 2022, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Prime Minister-in-exile Akhmed Zakayev asked him to serve as the Diplomatic Representative of the CRI in Switzerland. Although Luciano believed that human rights activism and diplomacy are rarely compatible, he temporarily accepted the post to support his friend and the Chechen people at a critical historical juncture.

Diplomatic Breakthrough Luciano immediately launched a large-scale lobbying campaign, achieving successes that had seemed impossible for years:

• PACE (Council of Europe): For the first time, an official CRI delegation was received by representatives of five member states.

• Economic Forum in Karpacz (“The Second Davos”): In 2022 and 2023, Luciano secured official speaker status for Zakayev, placing the CRI government on the same stage as world leaders.

  A Conflict of Values

  In August 2023, during a humanitarian mission to Ukraine, fundamental disagreements arose with the CRI leadership. Ahmed Zakayev issued Luciano a “strict reprimand” but offered to keep it secret. Luciano rejected these behind-the-scenes games, placing transparency above political expediency:

  “I have nothing to hide, and I am guilty of nothing. I demand that this be published officially.”

  As soon as the reprimand was released on the “Chechenpress” resource, Luciano was the first to share the link on social media with an ironic caption: “For impeccable service, I received a strict reprimand.”

  The Resignation of Principle

  Refusing to tolerate injustice, Luciano submitted his resignation three days later at the Consulate General of the CRI in Kyiv. To the persistent requests to remain in office, he replied with a principle inherited from his father:
  “My hero is my father. If he had issued me a strict reprimand, he would have fired me the same day. I will not occupy a chair where, receiving no salary and risking a bullet to the head every day, I receive a reprimand for impeccable service. Titles without mutual respect mean nothing to me. My greatest title is the sincere love of the Chechen people.

  If I am guilty of something, put the facts on the table. And leave your ‘Glock’ with a single round on that table. I know exactly what to do next.”

  In January 2024, the resignation was officially accepted. Disillusioned by political intrigue, Luciano decided that this was his first and last step into the world of politics.

The Roots of Solidarity Luciano’s deep connection with the Chechen people was forged in the 1990s in Baku. While Azerbaijan was hosting a million refugees and fighting the grueling Karabakh War, the country opened its doors to Chechens, sharing the common pain of imperial aggression. Alongside his mentor, Shirali Abbasli (a reconnaissance company commander in the First Karabakh War), Luciano organized free training sessions for Chechen refugee youth at the “Pioneer” cinema gym. It was there that empathy transformed into action.

The Battle for the Law A definitive turning point came through his meeting with Said-Emin Ibragimov, the legendary human rights defender and former Minister of Communications of the CRI. Luciano gained a profound understanding of the nation’s tragedy and joined the legal struggle against the Russian leadership. He provided pivotal support in preparing the historic lawsuit for the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

Luciano called Said-Emin, who had survived numerous assassination attempts by security services, the “World Champion of Survival.” Their bond evolved into a true brotherhood.

Creative Philosophy Luciano’s passion for truth extends far beyond the courtroom. His journey from documentary filmmaking to feature cinema is another powerful way to communicate vital truths to the world.

Documentary Cinema (Author and Director)

• “The Che Guevara of the Caucasus: Khamzat” – A portrait film of the legendary hero of Ichkeria, Khamzat Khankarov. This work immortalizes the commander who became a symbol of an unconquered spirit.

• “The Valley of Russians” – A documentary exploration of complex historical narratives.

• “Tragedy of a Family” – A poignant social drama reflecting human struggle.

Acting and Brotherhood: The Connection with Mano Khalil Luciano’s role in the film “Moments” was a gesture of fraternal support for the renowned Swiss-Kurdish director Mano Khalil. Luciano speaks of him with profound admiration:
“I consider Mano to be one of the greatest Kurds of all time. When he first arrived, the Swiss bureaucracy tried to break him, to crush his spirit and force him to sweep the streets. But he withstood the pressure, defeated the system, and proved to the world: I AM MANO!”

• “Moments” 2025  (Dir. Mano Khalil) – Role: A client facilitating illicit money transfers.

• “Utlionis” 2013 (Dir.Nijat Gafuroglu) – Role: The owner of a mystical house, a character radiating hidden power and authority.

Historical Music Project 2007

• Role: A Medieval Knight.

• Production: Luciano’s contribution went beyond acting. Leveraging his Special Forces background, he served as the stunt coordinator for combat scenes and directed the extras, bringing the raw realism of true battle to the screen.

1. The Hadji Mamish Charity Association Goal: To fund the higher education of the daughters of heroes who died in wars.

Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev: “By educating a girl, we educate a nation.”

2. Project “Water for Life” (Artesian Wells in Africa) Lack of clean water is a critical threat to over 190 million children in Africa. Luciano aims to organize the construction of artesian wells to provide sustainable access to drinking water in the most affected regions.

• The Philosophy: “As a native of the Caucasus, I feel a profound moral duty to bridge the historical divide between our continents. This is not just charity; it is an act of brotherhood and restoration of human dignity. Every child, regardless of where they are born, deserves the right to life and clean water.”