The recent arrival of a United Nations mission in Nagorno-Karabakh marks a significant development in the aftermath of the evolving conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
For the first time in nearly three decades, the international body gained access to the region to assess humanitarian needs in the wake of a one-day Azerbaijani offensive that led to the disarmament and dissolution of Armenian separatists. This brief analysis delves into the implications of this mission, the refugee crisis, international responses, and the future of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Background of the Evolving Conflict
Nagorno-Karabakh, a breakaway enclave, has been a long-standing source of conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan since the disintegration of the Soviet Union, fueled by ethnic and territorial disputes.
For decades, Armenian separatists controlled the region located within Azerbaijan’s borders, nevertheless predominantly populated by the former, which they aspire to reunite with Armenia. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan continues to seek to regain control over its territory, with a one-day Azerbaijani offensive in recent times leading to a sudden shift in power dynamics.
The Arrival of the UN Mission
For the first time in approximately 30 years, the United Nations gained access to Nagorno-Karabakh. According to an Azerbaijani presidency spokesman, the UN mission arrived primarily to assess humanitarian needs. This mission is a crucial step towards addressing the significant challenges posed by the recent conflict.
The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh resulted in a massive humanitarian crisis, with nearly the entire ethnic-Armenian population fleeing the territory. This mass displacement created a refugee crisis, prompting Armenia to request the World Court’s intervention to order Azerbaijan to withdraw its troops from civilian establishments in Nagorno-Karabakh.
The World Court, in a previous ruling, had ordered Azerbaijan to ensure free movement through the Lachin corridor leading to and from the region. While this order aimed to facilitate the movement of people, the recent developments have put the spotlight on the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
We express deep sympathy to the families of those who were killed in an explosion at a fuel depot in Nagorno-Karabakh, the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, and to all of those suffering. https://t.co/8twDFhdjky
Russia, as a regional power, played a significant role in mediating the conflict. The Russian news agency RIA reported that the process of relocating those wishing to leave Nagorno-Karabakh for neighboring Armenia is nearing completion. Russia’s involvement in managing this humanitarian aspect underscores its broader influence in the region.
World Health Organization’s Response
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also stepped in to address the humanitarian crisis. Dr. Hans Henri P Kluge, the regional director of the WHO Regional Office for Europe, announced the activation of emergency systems and the deployment of experts to address various health-related challenges the displaced population faces.
“We’ve activated our emergency systems and will be sending experts to the country across a range of disciplines, including mental health, burns management, essential health services, and emergency coordination, following a full assessment of the needs,” said Dr. Kluge.
The scale of the crisis is immense, necessitating international assistance.
Armenia’s Response
In response to the crisis, Armenia observed a national day of prayer for Nagorno-Karabakh on Sunday. According to local reports, church bells rang in various churches throughout the nation while Karekin II, the leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church, presided over a service held at Echmiadzin, the country’s primary cathedral located near the capital, Yerevan. This symbolic gesture highlighted the deep emotional ties that Armenians have to the region, reflecting their centuries-old dream of reuniting their ancestral lands.
According to the UN’s refugee agency, more than 100,000 people arrived in Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh. Siranush Sargsyan, a freelance journalist, told @Reuters thousands of people were stuck in a traffic jam on the highway leading to Armenia https://t.co/lFaoMnwcpcpic.twitter.com/HHZerovXZQ
Armenia has accused Azerbaijan of “ethnic cleansing” in Nagorno-Karabakh, an allegation that Azerbaijan vehemently denies. This accusation has led Armenia to call on Armenians not to leave their homes and to reintegrate with Azerbaijan while demanding the protection of their rights. The situation raises concerns about the treatment of the displaced population and the prospects for peaceful reintegration.
Challenges Ahead
With a population of 2.8 million, Armenia faces the daunting challenge of accommodating a sudden influx of refugees. Authorities have reported that 35,000 refugees are now in temporary accommodation. This influx places immense pressure on Armenia’s resources and infrastructure, further emphasizing the need for international assistance.
Looking Ahead: International Engagement and Nagorno-Karabakh’s Future
The arrival of the UN mission in Nagorno-Karabakh is a crucial step in addressing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the recent conflict. The displaced population, estimated at around 120,000, faces numerous challenges, including health, housing, and protection of rights. International organizations, including the World Health Organization and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, are actively engaged in providing assistance.
The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh has not only geopolitical but also deeply human dimensions. It has upended the lives of countless individuals and shattered the dreams of reuniting ancestral lands. As the international community assesses the situation, it is essential to prioritize humanitarian needs and work towards a sustainable solution that ensures the well-being of all those affected by the conflict.
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