Artsakh’s 33rd Independence Day: A Tale of Undying Hope, Pride, and Perseverance

Today marks the 33rd anniversary of the Republic of Artsakh's independence, a day for the people who have fought for their right to self-determination for decades. This small, landlocked region in the South Caucasus has a history filled with conflict, resilience, and a strong sense of national identity.

On September 2, 1991, a crucial declaration was made at a joint meeting of the people's deputies from the Nagorno-Karabakh Regional Council, the Shahumyan Regional Council, and councils from all levels. This declaration proclaimed the formation of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, establishing its provisional state bodies and administrative structures. This was a major step toward the region's independence.

The people's desire for self-governance was further solidified on December 10, 1991, when a referendum was held. In this referendum, an overwhelming 99.89% of the population of Artsakh voted in favor of independence. This clear mandate from the people led to the establishment of the Supreme Council of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic through democratic elections.

In January 1992, the newly elected Supreme Council held its inaugural session, during which the declaration of independence of the Republic of Artsakh was officially adopted. Artur Mkrtchyan was elected as the first President of the Supreme Council. Under his leadership, Artsakh adopted its own national symbols, including a tricolor flag of red, blue, orange, and white with a five-toothed ornament, a coat of arms, and a national anthem.

However, the road to independence was fraught with challenges. On September 25, 1991, Azerbaijan launched the first war against Artsakh. This brutal conflict lasted for more than three years, causing immense suffering on both sides. It wasn't until May 12, 1994, that a ceasefire agreement was reached, signed by the defense departments of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Armenia. The ceasefire brought a fragile peace to the region, but tensions always remained high.

The peace was shattered once again on September 27, 2020, when Azerbaijan launched a full-scale war against Artsakh. This war, which lasted until November 9, 2020, ended with a ceasefire agreement brokered by Armenia, Russia, and Azerbaijan. The outcome of the war was devastating for Artsakh. Azerbaijan gained control of the entire security zone surrounding Artsakh, including the significant territories of Shushi and Hadrut.

From 1994 until the 2020 war, Armenian and Azerbaijani troops were separated by a contested line of contact, a line that saw sporadic but deadly incidents over the years. The 2020 war saw a huge shift in the region, with Azerbaijan occupying not only the surrounding districts but also a substantial portion of the territory that Artsakh had claimed as its own.

The situation in Artsakh remained tense after the 2020 war. In December 2022, Azerbaijan blockaded the Lachin corridor, the vital link between Artsakh and Armenia, further isolating the region and causing a huge humanitarian crisis. In September 2023, Azerbaijan launched another military offensive, leading to a forced mass exodus.

The government of Artsakh, facing overwhelming military pressure, agreed to disarm and enter into negotiations with Azerbaijan. This decision led to a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians from the region, fearing for their safety and future. On September 28, 2023, the President of Artsakh signed a decree to dissolve all of the republic's institutions by January 1, 2024. However, this decree was later challenged, adding to the uncertainty in the region.

By October 1, 2023, nearly the entire population of Artsakh had fled to Armenia, marking a tragic end to the once-thriving indigenous Armenian community in the region.

The story of Artsakh is one of a people's unwavering determination to maintain their identity and sovereignty despite immense challenges. As the Republic of Artsakh marks its 33rd anniversary, its future remains uncertain. The resilience and spirit of its people, however, continue to inspire those who believe in the right to self-determination and the pursuit of peace.