Most Armenian Intellectuals Remain Silent: They Have Always Been Afraid, Says Naira Zohrabyan

Armenian National Assembly member Naira Zohrabyan stated on her Facebook page: "Russian and Russian-Armenian cultural figures, including conductors Vladimir Spivakov and Teodor Currentzis, musician Boris Grebenshchikov, and director Alexander Sokurov, have addressed UNESCO regarding the inclusion of the Christian cultural monuments and artistic and architectural heritage of Nagorno-Karabakh in the UNESCO World Heritage list and for the international protection of this heritage.

Many Armenian intellectuals remain silent. They are afraid. They have always been afraid. They have been afraid of all presidents and leaders throughout history. They have watched opposition protests from their kitchens. They have always remained silent. They will continue to be silent. That is who they are.

Here is the letter addressed to UNESCO from prominent Russian and Russian-Armenian intellectuals and cultural figures. Read it, Armenian intellectuals, do not be afraid; there is nothing critical of the current authorities that you cannot even secretly read without being seen.

"We, representatives of the international cultural community and public figures, are deeply concerned about the fate of the Christian cultural monuments and artistic and architectural heritage of Nagorno-Karabakh, which are at risk and may be destroyed, damaged, and subjected to vandalism even after the hostilities have ceased... We urge UNESCO to employ all its powers and capabilities to save the monuments, provide them with the necessary status, and ensure their inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list."

P.S. Turkish vandals today destroyed the Green Cathedral of Shushi - the Church of St. John the Baptist."