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Every year, on April 24th, the global Armenian community gathers to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. This dark chapter in history where an estimated 1.5 million Armenians were systematically massacred by the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1923 is still in the minds of most Armenian people. Every year, this is a solemn occasion that serves not only as a remembrance of the lives lost but also as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and preventing genocide and human rights violations wherever they might occur.
As we reflect on the horrific period dying the genocide, it is crucial to also shine a light on the present-day injustices faced by Armenians in the region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Following the recent war between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed territory, Azerbaijan has been accused of committing egregious human rights violations against Armenians whose families had lived in Nagorno-Karabakh for centuries and were forced out by the Azeris in 2023.
During the conflict, which erupted in late 2020, Azerbaijan launched a brutal military offensive against Nagorno-Karabakh, resulting in scores of casualties and the displacement of 120,000 civilians. Reports from international human rights organizations and journalists on the ground have documented numerous atrocities committed by Azerbaijani forces, including indiscriminate shelling of civilian areas, the use of cluster munitions, and the targeting of essential infrastructure such as hospitals and schools.
Furthermore, there have been disturbing accounts of war crimes perpetrated by Azerbaijani soldiers against Armenian civilians, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and mutilation of bodies. These actions not only violate international humanitarian law but also represent a gross disregard for the fundamental principles of human rights.
The plight of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh has been exacerbated by Azerbaijan’s continued aggression and provocations along the border of Armenia. Despite calls from the international community for restraint and a peaceful resolution to the conflict, Azerbaijan has shown little willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue or respect the rights of the Armenian people, their heritage, and their faith.
In light of these ongoing human rights violations, it is imperative for the international community to condemn Azerbaijan's actions and hold it accountable for its atrocities. The principles of justice and accountability demand that those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity be brought to justice, and the victims be provided with the necessary support and assistance to rebuild their lives.
Additionally, efforts must be made to address the underlying issues that fuel conflict and instability in the region, including the unresolved status of Nagorno-Karabakh and the need for genuine and good-faith dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Only through a comprehensive and inclusive approach that respects the rights and sovereignty of both parties involved can lasting peace and stability be achieved.
As we commemorate the Armenian Genocide and honor the memory of its victims, let us also reaffirm our commitment to upholding human rights and preventing atrocities wherever they may occur. The Armenian people have endured immense suffering throughout history, but their resilience and determination serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and oppression in all its forms.
