Global conference appeals to UN for justice for Western Azerbaijanis

On May 3, an international online conference titled “The Possibility of Joint and Peaceful Coexistence in a Changing World” brought together global experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders to highlight the right of return for Azerbaijanis displaced from Western Azerbaijan.

The event was jointly organized by the Council of Women of the Western Azerbaijan Community, the Peace and Conflict Studies Department at the University of North Carolina (US), and the Assembly of Turkish American Associations, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The conference aimed to spotlight the right of return for Azerbaijanis displaced from Western Azerbaijan, while also addressing broader themes of peaceful coexistence and intercultural dialogue. The timing of the event coincides with two United Nations observances: the International Day of Living Together in Peace (May 16) and the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development (May 21), both established to promote harmony and inclusivity in global societies.  

The virtual event drew participation from approximately 200 attendees representing more than a dozen countries. Speakers included prominent political figures, civil society advocates, and scholars from leading universities in the US, Canada, Spain, and other countries. During the discussions, participants emphasised the importance of international engagement in supporting the safe and dignified return of displaced Azerbaijani communities to their historical homelands. 

The event concluded with the issuance of formal appeals to the United Nations and other international organisations, urging recognition and support for the right of return. Since 2017, both May 16 and May 21 have been observed as official UN international days, emphasising peaceful coexistence and cultural diversity as cornerstones of global peacebuilding. 

Organisers noted that these observances, together with existing UN frameworks on human rights and refugee protection, provide a robust legal and ethical basis for advocating the goals outlined in the Western Azerbaijan Community’s Concept of Return.

By Naila Huseynova