Western Azerbaijan Community highlights Armenian ethnic cleansing at OSCE conf

On October 8, during the OSCE Human Dimension Conference in Warsaw, the Western Azerbaijan Community (WAC) organized a significant event under the theme "Right of Return," drawing attention to the plight of Azerbaijanis forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands in modern-day Armenia.

The event aimed to bring global awareness to the rights of Azerbaijanis, expelled over decades of ethnic conflict, to return to their historical homes in Armenia with dignity and security.

The WAC informed Caliber.Az that the gathering not only focused on the legal and humanitarian dimensions of this return but also addressed the practical challenges involved in ensuring a safe and sustainable reintegration for displaced Azerbaijani families. The discussion covered various aspects of international law and the responsibilities of global institutions in supporting this effort.

Speakers at the event included WAC Deputy Chairman Ramil Hasan and Aydin Safikhanli, Head of the Azerbaijani Ombudsman's Office. Both highlighted the history of ethnic cleansing orchestrated by Armenia against the Azerbaijani population and underscored the ongoing efforts by the WAC to maintain the issue of the "Right of Return" on the international agenda. They emphasized the importance of international pressure on Armenia to address this historical injustice and facilitate the return of displaced Azerbaijanis.

The Western Azerbaijan Community, originally established in 1989 as the Azerbaijan Refugee Society, has since evolved into a leading advocate for Azerbaijanis displaced from Armenia. Beyond the right of return, the organization's mission also includes the protection of the rights, security, and development of Azerbaijanis who were forced to flee during years of conflict. The WAC continues to work on fostering international cooperation and support to ensure that these displaced populations can return to their lands, live peacefully, and rebuild their lives.

By Tamilla Hasanova