Understanding the Fall of Nagorno-Karabakh and Its Impact on the Armenian Diaspora
Q1: What is Nagorno-Karabakh?
Answer: Nagorno-Karabakh is a landlocked region in the South Caucasus, internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but historically home to an ethnic Armenian majority.
Q2: What Happened Recently?
Answer: Azerbaijan's military launched a swift offensive, recapturing Nagorno-Karabakh and leading to the exodus of its majority Armenian population.
Q3: What Does This Mean for Armenians?
Answer: This is seen as a severe blow to the Armenian diaspora, who view the territory as a historical and cultural cornerstone. The Armenian Prime Minister termed it as "a direct act of ethnic cleansing."
Q4: How Has Azerbaijan Responded?
Answer: Azerbaijan has rejected claims of ethnic cleansing, stating that they are reclaiming territory internationally recognized as theirs.
Q5: What is the International Response?
Answer: Armenians accuse global powers, including European countries, Russia, and the United States, of failing to protect the population.
Q6: What's the History Behind the Conflict?
Answer: Armenians have had a historical presence in Nagorno-Karabakh, but it has also been home to Azeri communities. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, conflict erupted that temporarily placed the region under Armenian control.
Q7: How Has Lebanon Reacted?
Answer: Lebanon, which houses a significant Armenian diaspora, has seen protests against the Azerbaijani actions, reflecting the sentiment of Armenians worldwide.
Q8: What Happens Next?
Answer: Separatist Armenian authorities have surrendered their weapons and are in talks with Azerbaijan about the territory's reintegration. The region is undergoing a transformation that may lead to a shift in its demographic composition.
Q9: What Does This Mean for Armenian Culture and Heritage?
Answer: Armenians see this as a threat to their cultural and historical heritage, with sites like ancient monasteries at risk.
Q10: Is There Any Hope for the Future?
Answer: The situation remains highly uncertain. While there's fear about the erasure of the Armenian community in Nagorno-Karabakh, diplomatic channels are still open for negotiation.
The situation remains fluid and continues to evolve, with profound implications for both Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as their respective diasporas.
