European Parliamentarians express serious concerns over alleged torture of Armenian prisoners held in Baku, exploring options for urgent action.
The reported torture and ill-treatment of Armenian prisoners illegally detained in Baku, along with alarms raised by international bodies, have caused significant concern and discontent among Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).
According to sources from Armenpress in Brussels, discussions are underway regarding the appropriate form of response from MEPs to this outrage during the upcoming plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg next week. The possibility of holding urgent debates on the issue and adopting a resolution is under serious consideration.
International Alarm and EU Parliament’s Concerns: Fate of Armenian Detainees in Focus
Recent reports detailing the deteriorating treatment of Armenian prisoners held in Baku, particularly allegations of torture and inhumane conditions, have sparked serious concern within the international community. Members of the European Parliament have joined these concerns, considering potential actions to address the situation.
Urgent Debates and Resolution Adoption: Potential EU Actions
Within the European Parliament, discussions are currently focused on the feasibility of placing the issue of Armenian prisoners on the agenda for urgent debate during the plenary session in Strasbourg next week, alongside the possibility of adopting a resolution. Such a response could include a strong condemnation of Azerbaijan’s actions and a call for the immediate release of all illegally detained individuals.
Azerbaijan’s Stance and Accusations: Presence of 23 Armenian Detainees
Azerbaijan has confirmed the presence of 23 Armenian prisoners in its custody but insists they were detained on legal grounds and face accusations of various crimes. Simultaneously, Azerbaijan has unlawfully detained and brought fabricated charges against former Nagorno-Karabakh presidents Arkady Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Araik Harutyunyan, David Ishkhanyan (former Speaker of the National Assembly of Nagorno-Karabakh), former Foreign Minister David Babayan, former Defense Minister Levon Mnatsakanyan, former Deputy Defense Minister David Manukyan, and former State Minister Ruben Vardanyan. Fabricated charges have also been filed against Vasily Beglaryan, Erik Ghazaryan, David Alahverdyan, Gurgen Stepanyan, Levon Balayan, Madat Babayan, Garik Martirosyan, and Melikset Pashayan.
Ruben Vardanyan’s Case and Worsening Health: Torture Alarms
The criminal case against Ruben Vardanyan has been separated from the others, with proceedings conducted separately. However, former State Minister of Nagorno-Karabakh, Ruben Vardanyan, during a phone call with his family, conveyed his statement to the international community protesting the sham trial against him in Azerbaijan. During a court session on February 25, Ruben Vardanyan’s health deteriorated, leading to a session adjournment, which later resumed. The latest session took place on March 4. Concerns regarding Ruben Vardanyan’s deteriorating health condition and allegations of torture have been raised by his lawyer and family members. These alarms amplify international concern and the determination of MEPs.
Armenia’s Response and Call for International Attention
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia issued a statement on February 28 regarding the Armenian prisoners illegally held in Baku, drawing the international community’s attention to this issue and urging measures to protect the rights of the prisoners and ensure their immediate release.
The European Parliament’s consideration of urgent debates and a potential resolution underscores the serious international attention to the issue of Armenian prisoners held in Baku. Concerns regarding torture and human rights violations are compelling Europe to consider concrete steps aimed at resolving this humanitarian crisis. The upcoming plenary session of the European Parliament is expected to be pivotal in determining further actions on this matter.