"We Must Not Let Anyone Close the Chapter on Artsakh: We Will Not Surrender Our Dreams, Fight for Self-Determination, and Demand Every Armenian Stand Up for Our Right to Return," Vows Gegham Stepanyan

On what is typically a day of celebration, the people of Artsakh find themselves far from their homeland, unable to commemorate their independence in the place they hold dear. For the first time, the streets of Artsakh are silent on this significant day, as its citizens have been forced to abandon their indigenous homeland. In an exclusive interview with The Armenian Report, Gegham Stepanyan, the Human Rights Defender of Artsakh, shared his thoughts on the current situation, the future, and the ongoing struggle for the rights of the Artsakh people.

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"Today is a day we have always celebrated in our homeland," Stepanyan began, speaking from Yerevan. "But this year, for the first time, the people of Artsakh are deprived of the opportunity to celebrate Independence Day where our ancestors have lived for centuries."

Stepanyan spoke about the deep connection between the people of Artsakh and their right to self-determination, a right that was exercised in 1991 with the establishment of an independent republic. "We understand our responsibility to protect all the rights of the Artsakh people, including the right to self-determination," he said. "We must do everything possible to keep the page of Artsakh open and not allow anyone to close it."

This year, the celebration was held in Yerevan, at the permanent representation of the Artsakh Republic. According to Stepanyan, this location was chosen deliberately, carrying a strong message: "We are not going to give up our rights or our dreams. We will continue to speak about Artsakh and demand our right to return. This right is closely tied to our right to self-determination."

When asked about the future, Stepanyan expressed uncertainty but remained resolute. "I can't say that I have hope that next year we will be able to celebrate in Artsakh," he admitted. "But I know one thing for sure: I do not have the right to let anyone close this chapter. We have sacrificed so much for Artsakh, and we must continue the mission that our fallen soldiers have entrusted to us."

Stepanyan called on every Armenian and every supporter around the world to continue advocating for the rights of the Artsakh people. "We must keep speaking about Artsakh and the right of its people to return. I believe that one day, our dream will come true, and we will finally celebrate our beloved Independence Day on our land."

The discussion also touched on the ongoing issue of prisoners of war (POWs) held in Azerbaijan. Stepanyan was clear in his condemnation. "This is totally illegal. Azerbaijan continues to hold POWs and hostages, using them as political leverage."

Since 2020, the issue of POWs has been a significant concern, with Azerbaijan reportedly using these individuals as bargaining chips in negotiations with the international community and the Armenian government. Stepanyan emphasized the need for strong international support to ensure their release. "We need to make Azerbaijan accountable for every day they keep our hostages," he stated.

Looking ahead to COP 29, Stepanyan urged the international community to raise the issue of POWs. "This is a perfect occasion to reach out to our international partners and ask for their help in securing the release of our people."

The interview concluded with a message of resilience and determination. Stepanyan reiterated the importance of the struggle for the rights of the Artsakh people and their right to return to their homeland. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful that one day, the people of Artsakh will once again celebrate their Independence Day in their own land, free and secure.

For now, the fight continues—both for the return of POWs and for the broader rights of the Artsakh people. The message from Yerevan is clear: Artsakh’s struggle is far from over, and its people will not give up until they achieve their rightful place in the world.