Baku Plans to Settle 300,000 Azerbaijanis in Armenia, Warns Arman Tatoyan

In a recent roundtable discussion, Arman Tatoyan, former Human Rights Defender (ombudsman) of Armenia, raised alarms about Baku's purported intention to settle around 300,000 Azerbaijanis in Armenia. According to Tatoyan, this plan, purportedly under the guise of an international mission and with the presence of a security system trusted by the "Western Azerbaijan" community, poses a significant threat to Armenia's security.

Tatoyan emphasized that the primary force behind this plan is likely Turkey, suggesting that Azerbaijan's policy aims to dismantle Armenia's security apparatus. He stressed the urgent need for Armenia to devise a new security strategy, one that prioritizes safeguarding the state and its people while preserving Armenian identity. However, Tatoyan lamented that such strategic shifts seem unattainable under the current leadership's policies.

The proposed security strategy, according to Tatoyan, should be anchored in principles such as upholding the rule of law, promoting genuine democratic values, bolstering the effectiveness of the state apparatus, maintaining military readiness, and respecting human rights. Failure to adhere to these principles, he warned, could lead to irreversible consequences for Armenia.

Tatoyan dismissed assertions that the current tensions stem from border delimitation disputes between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He argued that genuine border delimitation processes entail meticulous mapping, cadastral surveys, assessments, and consideration of population rights — procedures absent from the current situation.

Highlighting ongoing rights violations, Tatoyan cited incidents in provinces like Syunik, Gegharkunik, and Vayots Dzor, where residents have reportedly faced infringements. He criticized Armenia's border delimitation commission, formed under questionable legal grounds, for making statements that could jeopardize the country's safety.

"The commission, established solely on the prerogative of the head of government and limited to a consultative role by law, should focus solely on its members' interests," Tatoyan argued. "It has no mandate to make decisions affecting the entire nation without proper regulations or consensus."

Tatoyan's remarks shows growing concerns over Armenia's security amidst regional tensions. 

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Here is our interview with Mr. Arman Tatoyan during his visit to Tavush province this past weekend.