Armenian opposition MP criticizes government over stance on Artsakh Armenians' rights

An Armenian opposition lawmaker on Saturday accused the government of obstructing international efforts to protect the rights of ethnic Armenians displaced from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), following a resolution adopted by the European Parliament.

Writing on social media, Tigran Abrahamyan, a member of the opposition Pativ Unem faction, said that while “various reputable international institutions and countries” have supported initiatives aimed at restoring the rights of Artsakh Armenians, the Armenian authorities were “using their full capacity to hinder the implementation of these efforts.”

His comments came after the European Parliament on April 30 passed a resolution on supporting democratic resilience in Armenia, which reaffirmed its backing for the protection of the rights of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians. The resolution highlighted the need to preserve their identity, property, and cultural heritage, and underscored their right to a safe, dignified, and unimpeded return under international guarantees.

“Contrary to the preferences of the Armenian authorities, the European Parliament has once again reaffirmed its support for the protection of the rights of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians,” Abrahamyan said, accusing the government of acting at odds with international efforts.

The resolution also addressed broader regional issues, including Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan. It condemned their unlawful detention and called for their immediate and unconditional release. It further stressed that any sustainable peace in the South Caucasus must be based on respect for Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In addition, the European Parliament called for accountability over the destruction of Armenian cultural and religious heritage and urged the deployment of an international assessment mission.