Ombudsperson stresses importance of international recognition of Azerbaijani genocide
Azerbaijan commemorates the Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis
March 31 marks the Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis, a day to remember the atrocities committed against Azerbaijanis throughout history. In a statement by Sabina Aliyeva, the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, it is pointed out that incidents of genocide committed against Azerbaijanis have not received fair international recognition.
The policy of genocide and ethnic cleansing against Azerbaijanis by Armenians has been a dark chapter in history for over a century. Azerbaijanis of Turk and Muslim origin have been systematically targeted with crimes of genocide, resulting in massacres, destruction of villages and cities, and expulsion from their lands. The Armenian nationalists’ anti-Muslim and anti-Azerbaijani policy led to massacres in various regions including Baku, Shamakhi, Karabakh, Zangezur, and others.
The statement highlights the burning of villages, merciless murders, and the erasure of Azerbaijani presence from these lands. Historical records and survivors’ testimonies confirm the scale of these atrocities, proving that the crimes committed constitute genocide according to international law.
Despite the Decree of the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev in 1998 declaring March 31 as the Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis, international recognition and commemoration of the victims are still lacking. It is emphasized that the international community must conduct a political and legal assessment of the crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing against Azerbaijanis, recognize the events of 1918 as genocide, and work towards restoring historical and legal justice.
On this Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis, it is essential to remember the victims, condemn the crimes committed, and strive for justice and prevention of such atrocities in the future.
