Western Azerbaijan Community calls for right of return to Armenia

Aziz Alakbarli, Chairman of the Western Azerbaijan Community, has denied recent claims suggesting that discussions are underway to change the name of the organisation he leads.

Alakbarli stressed that no such discussions exist and “cannot exist.” He emphasised the historical and legal basis for the community’s goals, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

"The territory of Western Azerbaijan is our historical land, where our compatriots once lived. With the conclusion of the Karabakh conflict, its consequences must also be addressed. The right of all refugees and internally displaced persons to return to their native lands must be recognised," Alakbarli said.

He added that this approach aligns with international law and historical justice, ensuring human rights and the right of return as enshrined in international conventions. Alakbarli also noted that the community has never acted against the sovereignty or territorial integrity of Armenia. "On the contrary, we want to return to our homeland and live as full-fledged citizens of this country," he stated.

Alakbarli further expressed support for ongoing efforts to normalise relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, welcoming the initiatives of leaders from both countries to foster peace and reconciliation.

The Western Azerbaijan Community, formerly the Azerbaijan Refugee Society, was founded in 1989, represents Azerbaijanis forcibly expelled from their ancestral lands in present-day Armenia between 1987 and 1991. Over 300,000 people were displaced, with homes destroyed and hundreds killed or injured.

The Community has systematically documented these families and their heritage and advocates for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of displaced Azerbaijanis. Its “Concept of Return” is based on international law and aims to secure agreements, protection, and support for returnees, while promoting historical justice and reconciliation.

By Vugar Khalilov