As COP29 convenes in Baku, significant criticism arises from Christian groups advocating for Armenia, urging a boycott over Azerbaijan’s human rights issues. Bishop Pascal Gollnisch and various political leaders emphasize the need to recognize Armenian cultural erasure and support their rights amid international discussions on climate action.
As COP29 unfolds in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, it is facing substantial backlash from Christian leaders and certain political figures regarding the country’s human rights record. The conference, a critical global climate change summit, has ignited a campaign led by Christian organizations advocating for Armenia, notably initiated by L’Œuvre d’Orient, a Catholic aid group focused on supporting Eastern Christians. They have called for a boycott of COP29 and organized protests amid concerns for the welfare of Armenians under Azerbaijani control. Bishop Pascal Gollnisch, the General Director of L’Œuvre d’Orient, has expressed that hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan undermines the very principles of justice, peace, and environmental stewardship intended to guide such meetings. He cited evidence of ongoing erosion of Armenian cultural and religious heritage, including the destruction of churches and the renaming of locations as concerns prompting the boycott call. Political participation in this movement has also emerged, with representatives from the European Parliament vocalizing their opposition to Azerbaijan’s actions. On October 24, members of the European Parliament condemned Azerbaijan’s violations of human rights and urged their fellow officials not to engage in the conference, highlighting military and economic support for Armenia. This assertive stance was echoed at a November 5 protest, which saw European politicians emphasize the necessity of connecting Armenia more closely with Europe. The plight of Armenians, particularly those who have been forced from their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh, was further highlighted by joint statements from Armenian Church leaders expressing deep concern about the ongoing crisis and advocating for humanitarian support. In light of these ongoing struggles, leaders such as Aram I from the Armenian Apostolic Church have called for renewed international efforts to protect Armenian interests and reaffirm their rights, including self-determination. The resolution of the conflict has become increasingly urgent following Azerbaijan’s military actions that led to the displacement of approximately 100,000 Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, prompting hopes for a peace agreement to end decades of hostilities.
The tension between Armenia and Azerbaijan, particularly regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh region, has been historically fraught. Following a military offensive by Azerbaijan in September 2023, the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh was disbanded, and tens of thousands of Armenians were displaced. The international community’s response, particularly from religious entities, has focused on human rights and the preservation of Armenian cultural heritage. This backdrop sets the stage for the protests and the calls for boycotting COP29, emphasizing the intersection of climate discussions and urgent humanitarian concerns.
In summary, COP29 in Baku has become a focal point for protests led by Christian groups advocating for the rights and welfare of Armenians affected by the ongoing conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. Key political figures and Armenian religious leaders alike are urging the international community to recognize and act upon human rights violations in Azerbaijan. As the conference progresses, the tension between environmental aims and pressing humanitarian issues will remain a critical discussion point.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
