Dissolution decree follows mass Armenian migration from Karabakh
Samvel Shahramanyan, the President of the separatist republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), has issued a decree officially dissolving the republic. The decree, dated after September 19, 2023, is linked to the prevailing grave military and political circumstances and follows an agreement brokered by the Russian peacekeeping forces’ command.
In the decree, Shahramanyan emphasizes the paramount importance of safeguarding the physical safety and vital interests of Karabakh’s people. As a result, it stipulates an agreement with the representatives of the Republic of Azerbaijan to allow the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, including disarmed military personnel, free, voluntary, and unimpeded movement, along with their property, using their own vehicles through the Lachin corridor, in accordance with Article 93 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The decree, invoking the Constitution of the unrecognized republic, further decrees the abolition of all state institutions and organizations under the government until January 1, 2024. Subsequently, the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) Republic will cease all activities.
The document also calls upon the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, including those residing outside the republic, to familiarize themselves with the reintegration terms presented by Azerbaijan. They are encouraged to make independent and individual decisions following the decree’s enforcement.
Migration of Armenian Residents and Controversy
The recent mass migration of Armenian residents from Karabakh to Armenia following the Azerbaijani military operation on September 19-20 has raised questions and sparked a debate. While many have characterized this migration as a form of ethnic cleansing, Azerbaijani officials claim that no one was coerced into leaving, presenting it as a voluntary decision.
Local media coverage, particularly from the Lachin exit point, has featured Armenians who relocated from Karabakh expressing that their departure was a matter of personal choice.
The Armenian publication Hraparak reported on a meeting between Samvel Shahramanyan, the leader of the Armenian community in Shusha, and Ali Nagiyev, the head of the State Security Service, amidst Azerbaijan’s demand for the release of separatist organizations in Karabakh.
According to information provided by the Armenian publication, the meeting focused on humanitarian concerns. Shahramanyan appealed to Azerbaijan to exercise caution in entering Khakendi (Stepanakert), emphasizing that the prevailing atmosphere in the city was marked by panic. He expressed concerns about the unpredictable events that might transpire upon the arrival of Azerbaijani troops.
Social media platforms have also been abuzz with discussions about the migrating population. Some among the emigrants are reportedly hesitant to coexist with Azerbaijanis, while others appear to have left their homes in a wave of general panic.