Azerbaijan seeks UN support for right to return of Azerbaijanis expelled from Armenia

During the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, an event titled “The Right to Return - An Important Incentive for Peace and Reconciliation” took place.

Spokesperson Ulviya Zulfikar, Head of the Public Relations Department of the Western Azerbaijan Community and the Television of Western Azerbaijan represented Azerbaijan at the event, the Community told Caliber.Az.

Zulfikar addressed the attendees, highlighting the forced eviction of Azerbaijanis from areas in Armenia where they once constituted the majority. She emphasized that the painful consequences of these deportations remain unresolved. “Our repeated attempts to engage in dialogue with the Armenian government about the right to return have gone unanswered,” she stated.

Furthermore, she pointed out that the Armenian government often questions the right of return for Azerbaijanis: “They do not allow us to visit our homes and sacred sites. We hope for the support of the international community and UN human rights institutions, as our efforts alone are insufficient.”

Zulfikar called on UN human rights bodies, including special rapporteurs, to prepare reports and take action to uphold the right of Azerbaijanis to return to Armenia.

An Armenian representative at the event attempted to frame the term “Western Azerbaijan” as a claim to Armenian territory. In response, Zulfikar clarified that the community’s name is rooted in historical and geographical context, stating, “A non-governmental organization cannot make territorial claims against any state.” She also reminded the audience that the community has reached out to the Armenian Prime Minister seeking dialogue.

The event featured an interactive segment where participants had the opportunity to ask questions, which were addressed by the speakers.