In 2012 he initiated a lawsuit against Croatia Records from Zagreb, the direct successor of Jugoton, over royalty rights, as well book publisher from Belgrade, for copyright infringement. In revolt to the statements made by music editor from the Croatia Records and former Jugoton, Štulić stated that Azra is not a Croatian band. About appearing in Croatia he said that he does not want to perform in “occupied territories” referring to nations that broke away from Yugoslavia. He saw himself as Yugoslavian and said that Yugoslavia is his only country of origin. He also stated that he does not want to return to Serbia where he was hoped to appear either. Štulić states he sees no reason to return to the Balkans, as he “went as far away as possible from people who suddenly wanted to kill each other”. Svetko Stulić, his brother, stated that he would “not give up his intention to bring Branimir back. Svetko said “ "I think the time has come for Branimir's return. I will not give up while I am alive. I want to bring him back, in Nin, in Croatia.” Branimir used to spend his summers in Nin where his father was from. Štulić had never denied his Nin lineage or Croat ethnicity. He once stated “ Mine are from Nin, Croats”. Due to an issue of him not having a valid passport he declined both Croatian and Serbian passports and citizenship.