Peace March to be Held in Strasbourg for the 106th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

A peaceful march will be held in Strasbourg on April 24, marking the 106th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, organized by the Union of Armenian Youth. The event will commemorate the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 as well as those who fell victim to the recent Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

In an interview with Armenpress, co-founder of the Union of Armenian Youth, Hamlet Hovsepyan, stated that despite the pandemic, the march will proceed to demonstrate the unity of the Armenian people. "We will conduct a silent march while adhering to all health protocols. After the war in Artsakh, there was a moment of disillusionment among Armenians. We aim to conduct this event to show our solidarity and unity, which is very important," said Hovsepyan.

The participants of the march will head towards the Council of Europe building, where flowers will be laid at the Armenian cross-stone erected there. The event is held annually, typically as a protest march; this year, however, it is planned as a silent demonstration symbolizing the unity of Armenians in support of Armenia and Artsakh. According to tradition, locals including Kurds, Assyrians, Greeks, Serbs, and French people participate in the march. Hamlet Hovsepyan mentioned that they expect the participation of the Mayor of Strasbourg.

"We are united as one fist, loyal to the memory of our martyrs, our past, history, and our claims. It is vital to demonstrate our unity, especially since the Azerbaijani representation has been trying to exert pressure on Armenians in this period. For instance, I see this issue affecting me and my brother. They are attempting to label us as terrorists by using our presence in Artsakh during the recent war. I was only in Artsakh, while my brother was not," emphasized Hovsepyan, highlighting that they are not discouraged; they are well-known in Strasbourg, united, and will continue their struggle.