In a poignant gathering on Capitol Hill, human rights advocates and former Armenian officials voiced urgent concerns regarding the ongoing plight of Armenian Christians, particularly in the aftermath of the recent Azerbaijani military offensive. This event, held on October 3, 2023, highlighted the desperate need for international attention and action to support one of the world’s oldest Christian communities.
John Eibner, president of Christian Solidarity International, stood alongside Swiss parliamentarians Erich Vontobel and Lukas Reimann, as well as Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister. They presented a compelling case for the Swiss Peace Initiative, which aims to facilitate the safe return of displaced Armenian Christians to Nagorno-Karabakh—a region that has been home to over 100,000 Armenian Christians until they were forcibly expelled during Azerbaijan’s September offensive.
Eibner emphasized the critical role the United States could play in reversing what he described as "ethno-religious cleansing." He posed a challenging question: can a lasting peace in the South Caucasus be built on the foundation of such actions? His call to action was clear—if the U.S. truly stands for human rights and religious freedom, it should support Switzerland’s initiative to foster dialogue between Azerbaijan and the displaced Armenian community.
The historical context of this crisis cannot be overlooked. Eibner pointed out that the persecution of Armenian Christians has been a long-standing issue, tracing back to the late 19th century and culminating in the Armenian Genocide. He warned that the recent events are merely the latest chapter in a tragic history, and if left unchecked, could lead to further atrocities against this vulnerable population.
Oskanian, who now chairs the Committee for the Defense of the Fundamental Rights of the People of Nagorno-Karabakh, echoed these sentiments. He criticized the U.S. government’s reluctance to take a firmer stance against Azerbaijan, citing geopolitical ties as a barrier to action. "These considerations do not justify silence on the expulsion of 150,000 people from their homes," he asserted. Oskanian underscored that the right of return for displaced individuals is not merely a political issue; it is a legal and moral obligation grounded in international law.
The Swiss Parliament’s recent motion to organize a peace forum is a significant step towards addressing these issues. This initiative aims to create a neutral space where representatives of both sides can engage in constructive dialogue. Oskanian clarified that this initiative is not about taking sides; it is about ensuring that voices of the displaced can be heard and that a path forward can be established.
Eibner and Oskanian’s calls for action resonate with many Christian leaders and advocates for human rights worldwide. The plight of Armenian Christians often fades from the headlines, overshadowed by other global crises. However, as Eibner pointed out, it is crucial for Christians in the U.S. to raise their voices in solidarity with their Armenian brothers and sisters. He urged Christian leadership to publicly advocate for the rights of persecuted communities, emphasizing that silence in the face of injustice is not an option.
For those looking to support the cause, the Swiss Peace Initiative offers a tangible way to help. By endorsing this effort, individuals can contribute to the protection and restoration of a community that has faced unimaginable hardships. The time for action is now, as the world watches and waits to see how the situation unfolds.
In conclusion, the plight of Armenian Christians is not just a regional issue; it is a matter of global concern that calls for collective action. As Christians worldwide, we are called to stand in solidarity with those who are suffering, advocating for their rights and ensuring that their stories are not forgotten. The Swiss Peace Initiative represents a hopeful step towards peace and reconciliation, and it is our responsibility to support such efforts in any way we can. For more information on how you can help, visit Christian Solidarity International and stay informed about ongoing developments.