On the Arrest of Mayors in Artsakh

Recently, we learned about the arrest of the mayors of Stepanakert, Askeran, and Martakert by Armenian law enforcement authorities. While leaving the legal evaluation of this sudden decision to experts, we are deeply concerned about the moral implications and the hidden motives behind these actions.  

The aforementioned officials are not only devoted members of the Armenian Apostolic Church who have always supported the Church's spiritual mission in Artsakh, but they are also patriotic and respected individuals within their communities. These individuals have stood at the forefront of the Artsakh liberation struggle and have remained steadfast in their commitment to their compatriots, even in challenging times.

Today, these individuals play a unifying role among their displaced compatriots who have found refuge in Armenia. Alarmingly, their persecution coincides with public protests sparked by border delimitation and demarcation issues in Armenia.

We strongly condemn any unfounded and disproportionate use of force against Artsakh officials. Of particular concern is the reemergence of the divisive "Artsakhtsis versus Hayastantsis" narrative under state sponsorship, aimed at portraying the forcibly displaced Artsakh population as the sole beneficiaries of the growing movement. This dangerous rhetoric only serves those who historically benefited from such divisions.