Two-Day Conference on Armenia, Artsakh Denounces Depopulation as Genocide, Urges Global Action

OCP News Service – 23/01/2024

Antelias – Lebanon: A two-day conference hosted by the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia concluded with strong statements condemning the ongoing depopulation of Artsakh as genocide and demanding international action against its perpetrators. The conference took place on January 19th and 20th in Antelias, Lebanon. Experts from Armenia, Artsakh, the USA, South America, France, and Switzerland participated. The conference followed a series of online consultations within the “Analysis and Awareness Platform” (AAP).

Key findings of the conference:

• Genocide claim: International law experts and scholars unanimously characterized the depopulation of Artsakh as genocide, drawing parallels to the historical Armenian Genocide and highlighting the alarming international indifference surrounding the issue.
• Collective action: The conference emphasized the need for collective action against the crime of genocide, its denial, and the ongoing threat it poses to the Armenian people.
• Commitment to Artsakh: A strong commitment to the cause of Artsakh was underscored as vital to safeguarding Armenia’s territorial integrity, independence, and overall security.
• Unity and cessation of internal divisions: Recognizing the existential threat faced by Armenians globally, the conference urged unity and the cessation of internal divisions to effectively confront the danger.

Practical outcomes:

• International conference: An international conference will be held before April 24, 2024, under the auspices of the Holy See of Cilicia. This conference aims to hold Azerbaijan accountable for the genocide committed against Artsakh and draw on expertise from Armenian, Artsakh, Diaspora, and non-Armenian experts.
• Conference proceedings publication: The proceedings of the January conference will be published to disseminate crucial insights and discussions.
• Analysis of Azerbaijani crimes: A comprehensive analysis of crimes committed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh between 2016 and 2023 will be conducted as part of a research project.
• Cultural heritage risk list: A list will be compiled documenting spiritual and cultural heritage values at risk of cultural genocide in the seized territories of Artsakh.
• Appeal for prisoners’ release: His Holiness Aram I and the World Council of Churches will directly appeal for the immediate release of abducted military-political leadership and unlawfully detained prisoners of war, emphasizing the need for international advocacy and intervention.

This conference marks a significant step in raising awareness about the depopulation of Artsakh and calling for international action to address this critical issue. The planned initiatives, including the upcoming conference and research project, hold the potential to further amplify the Armenian voice and advocate for accountability and justice.

Source:

OCP News Service