Times change, years pass, and the world evolves, but some
character and purpose remain unwavering. On November 1, the
Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), also known as
Dashnaktsutyun, will hold a rally in Yerevan, demanding that COP29
participants pressure Azerbaijan for the release of Armenian
prisoners. Although presented as a humanitarian initiative, this
rally raises serious concerns about its true intentions and the
implications for regional peace. In a world striving for progress
and peace, the rally stands as a stark reminder of an organization
with a history steeped in violence and divisiveness.
The organizers assert that hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan, a
country they label as having a “dictatorial regime,” is an affront
to human rights and an opportunity for Azerbaijan to “wash its
hands stained with blood.” Such statements are not merely calls for
justice; they reflect a strategic narrative aimed at undermining
Azerbaijan’s international standing. By framing the conference in
this light, ARF seeks to manipulate public perception and rally
support against Azerbaijan, rather than fostering constructive
dialogue. While framed as a humanitarian appeal, the ARF campaign
is steeped in a history of violence and political manipulation.
Since its founding in the late 19th century, the
organization has been involved in various violent actions,
particularly during the massacres that occurred in Türkiye and
Azerbaijan in the early 20th century and subsequent
conflicts. The group’s tactics have included assassinations and
bombings aimed at achieving political goals.
The organization has often resorted to terrorist methods
throughout its existence, employing violence to achieve political
objectives. Interestingly, Prime Minister Pashinyan’s government
appears unperturbed by Azerbaijan’s position on imprisoned
separatists, suggesting a disconnect between the ruling government
and the rallying sentiments of the ARF Dashnaktsutyun.
For instance, the Armenian government, under Prime Minister
Nikol Pashinyan, appears conflicted regarding participation in
COP29. While it is considering representation at the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs level, the decision not to view Azerbaijan’s stance
on imprisoned separatists as a deterrent to participation raises
eyebrows. This disloyalty is not only a lack of unity but also a
broader struggle within Armenian society regarding its approach to
international diplomacy and relations with Azerbaijan. While the
ARF claims to represent the interests of the Armenian people, its
history suggests an agenda that may prioritize political posturing
over genuine progress. Holding a conference in Azerbaijan,
characterized as a “dictatorial regime,” is framed as an
opportunity for the country to cleanse its reputation. Yet, this
perspective overlooks the significance of COP29 as a platform for
establishing peace between nations, including Armenia and
Azerbaijan. The rally, rather than threatens to perpetuate division
and misunderstanding. But this tactic not only risks derailing
genuine efforts toward peace but also perpetuates an atmosphere of
hostility that has long plagued Armenian-Azerbaijani relations.
The UN’s involvement in COP29, intended to promote dialogue and
cooperation, stands in stark contrast to the rhetoric emanating
from Yerevan. While the UN supports the event, claiming a
commitment to peace and collaboration, the actions of
Dashnaktsutyun suggest a divergence from these ideals. The
organization’s insistence on equating Azerbaijan’s participation
with a tacit endorsement of alleged human rights violations
diminishes the potential for constructive engagement.
COP29, created and organized by the UN, is not merely an
environmental summit but also a critical opportunity for fostering
peace and dialogue between nations. However, ARF’s call for action
threatens to turn this significant international event into a stage
for historical grievances, undermining efforts toward
reconciliation in the South Caucasus. The rally is positioned as a
plea for justice, yet it risks perpetuating a narrative of division
and animosity.
As Azerbaijan prepares to welcome international leaders to
COP29, it is essential to remain vigilant against attempts to
manipulate the narrative for political gain. The focus should
remain on constructive dialogue and cooperation rather than on
historical grievances that threaten to derail peace efforts. The
world watches as the region stands at a crossroads—will Armenia
choose the path of progress, or will it succumb to the divisive
tactics of the past?
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Akbar Novruz is AzerNews’ staff journalist, you can follow him
on Twitter: @ykwiua
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