Concern Over Targeting of Homes and Civil Infrastructure

The Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasanyan visited the border communities of Gegharkunik Province on May 2. The information was reported by the Office of the Human Rights Defender.

“The purpose of the Defender's visit was to conduct fact-finding work on human rights violations on-site, to gather corroborative documents and evidence, and to get acquainted with issues that concern the civilian population. The data collected during the visit indicate that Azerbaijani servicemen continue to exhibit aggressive behavior, threatening villagers by displaying weapons, and frequently firing shots near residential areas. The targeting of homes and civil infrastructure of the residents in border communities is highly concerning.”

The Defender's first stop was in the community of Gavar. Gegharkunik Province Governor Karen Sargsyan presented the issues facing the province to Anahit Manasanyan. The Defender assured that the documented human rights violations will be reported to competent authorities and international organizations to explore possible solutions to the issues.

Subsequently, the Human Rights Defender visited the enlarged community of Vardenis, where a meeting was held with the community leader Aharon Khachatryan, who presented urgent issues requiring resolution. The Defender also visited border communities including Verin Shorja, Sarategh, Kut, Norabak, Sotk, and Kutakan.

Anahit Manasanyan spoke with residents of these areas, who expressed concerns related to their lives and security, physical and mental integrity, property rights, education, and other basic rights. Residents raised issues related to the use of pastures, hayfields, and arable land. Additionally, they mentioned that under the current conditions, it has become difficult to engage in livestock farming and to provide for their families.

The Human Rights Defender emphasized that the use of force and the threat of force by Azerbaijani servicemen also aim to intimidate the residents of border communities. Like the aforementioned, all other collected facts will be summarized in the Office of the Human Rights Defender and will be presented to relevant international organizations and other stakeholders, as well as state authorities.

Earlier, on April 14, Anahit Manasanyan had conducted a working visit to the community of Tegh in the Syunik Province.