Dr. Tom Catena Sends Urgent Message from Sudan, Calling for Release of Ruben Vardanyan and Armenian Captives

Dr. Tom Catena, a renowned humanitarian and winner of the 2017 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, has issued a grave appeal to the international community, urging action for the immediate release of former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan and other Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan.

In a heartfelt video message from Sudan, Dr. Catena described Vardanyan’s imprisonment as unjust and called for global pressure to secure his freedom.

Dr. Catena, who has dedicated over 15 years of his life to providing medical care in war-torn Sudan, is widely respected for his humanitarian work. He serves as the medical director of the Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains, a region suffering from ongoing conflict. His commitment to saving lives in extreme conditions earned him international recognition, including the prestigious Aurora Prize.

In his video, Dr. Catena speaks directly to the world, expressing deep concern for Ruben Vardanyan, whom he has known since 2017. “I’ve gotten to know Ruben quite well over the years,” he states, describing him as a person of “exceptional integrity, character, and honesty.”

Vardanyan, a philanthropist and former government official in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), was taken hostage by Azerbaijani authorities in September 2023 following the occupation of the region by Azerbaijan. His arrest, along with the detention of other Armenian leaders and civilians, has been widely condemned by human rights groups and international organizations.

Dr. Catena said that the charges against Vardanyan are false and baseless. He mentioned the fact that Vardanyan was fully aware of the risks when he chose to go to Artsakh, yet he still went to help. “Despite knowing that his presence could make him a target, he took that risk because of his dedication to his people,” Dr. Catena said.

In his message, Dr. Catena urged governments, organizations, and individuals around the world to take a stand. “I’m calling on people of goodwill to demand the release of Ruben and all the Armenian prisoners who are being unjustly held,” he said.

Human rights advocates have repeatedly raised concerns about the treatment of Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan. Reports indicate that many detainees face harsh conditions and are denied their basic rights. Organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called for their release, citing violations of international law.

Dr. Catena’s statement adds to the growing international demand for justice. Various political leaders, diplomats, and advocacy groups have been urging Azerbaijan to release Armenian detainees and adhere to international human rights standards.

As pressure mounts, the international community’s response will be critical in determining the fate of Ruben Vardanyan and other Armenian prisoners. Advocacy efforts, diplomatic interventions, and legal actions are expected to continue in an attempt to secure their freedom.