It is Important for the International Community to Document These Realities: Armenian Foreign Ministry

The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the significance of the UN Special Rapporteur's inquiry into cultural rights directed at Azerbaijan, which raises concerns regarding the destruction and appropriation of Armenian historical, cultural, and religious heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh, the distortion of the region's history, and attempts to erase Armenian traces, equating to cultural cleansing.

This statement was provided in response to an inquiry from Aysor.am. The question specifically mentioned: "Recently, it became known that the UN Special Rapporteur on Cultural Rights sent an inquiry to Azerbaijan, expressing concern about the destruction and appropriation of Armenian historical, cultural, and religious heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh, the distortion of the region’s history, and attempts to erase Armenian traces, comparable to cultural cleansing. How do you comment on this? What expectations exist? Is there any response?" In response, the Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted: "You are correct. I can add that the message also addresses the targeting of people, monuments, and symbols, as well as violations of international humanitarian law. The message references the December 7, 2021 ruling of the International Court of Justice, presents information about the destruction of shrines and cemeteries, falsification of 'Aghvank' narratives, pseudoscientific approaches, the so-called ‘Western Azerbaijan’ false agenda, hate speech against Armenians, the September 19 attack, ethnic cleansing, and several other issues.

It is noteworthy that UN Special Rapporteurs have repeatedly addressed the violations of the rights of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan, including violations of cultural rights and cases of destruction and distortion of Armenian heritage. Unfortunately, even the aforementioned legally binding decision by the International Court of Justice has not stopped the ongoing policy against Armenian religious and cultural heritage. Yes, it is also accompanied by manifestations of hate speech, and pseudoscientific falsifications regarding the history of the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh. At the same time, we consider it crucial for the international community to document these realities, which is vital for preventing such crimes and establishing an atmosphere of dialogue and sustainable peace in the region."