Within the framework of the parliamentary inquiry “Erasing the Past: The Destruction of Cultural Heritage,” officially launched in the UK Parliament, Artsakh Union has raised the alarm about Azerbaijan’s genocidal policy and advocated for the protection of Artsakh’s endangered historical and cultural heritage.
Artak Beglaryan, President of Artsakh Union, delivered the keynote address at the inaugural session held on February 23. He presented British parliamentarians and international legal experts with comprehensive evidence regarding the destruction of Artsakh’s cultural heritage, the forced displacement and current situation of its people, and the violation of the rights of Armenian captives.
Artak Beglaryan emphasized the need for international monitoring and preventive mechanisms. In accordance with the orders of the UN International Court of Justice (ICJ), these mechanisms would help protect the heritage and property of the people of Artsakh currently under Azerbaijani occupation. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of realizing the right of return for the people of Artsakh and called for international support, stressing its crucial role in ensuring a just, dignified, and lasting peace.
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In addition to Mr. Beglaryan’s oral testimony, Artsakh Union subsequently submitted a comprehensive report to the UK Parliament and the International Bar Association. Co-authored by the Artsakh Union and the “Artsakh Cultural and Tourism Development Agency” NGO, the report is titled: “Systematic Destruction and Appropriation of Armenian Cultural Heritage in Artsakh by Azerbaijan(2020–2026).”
The report documents the deliberate destruction and appropriation of Armenian churches, cemeteries, monuments, and museum collections. It presents undeniable evidence that Azerbaijan’s actions are genocidal in nature, aimed at eradicating the Armenian historical presence in Artsakh and preventing the indigenous population from returning to their homeland.
The inquiry is being conducted with the support of the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) and a UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), chaired by MP Brendan O’Hara. The process will consist of five stages, culminating in the publication of a final report addressed to the UK Government and international stakeholders.
To access the full version of the aforementioned report, co-authored by the Artsakh Union and the “Artsakh Cultural and Tourism Development Agency” NGO, please visit the following link.
Artsakh Union
