IN a world often characterized by intractable conflicts, when two nations make tangible steps towards peace, it is newsworthy. The recent development in the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations is one such beacon of hope. Armenia has returned four border villages to Azerbaijan, marking a significant step towards normalizing ties between these historical adversaries. While this move has ignited protracted protests within Armenia, it also symbolizes a critical juncture—an opportunity to transition from decades of hostility to a future of peace and stability.
To fully comprehend the significance of this act, one must delve into the convoluted history of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. Both nations, former Soviet republics, have endured two devastating wars in the 1990s and most recently in 2020 over the contested region of Nagorno-Karabakh. This enclave, internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, had been under Armenian separatist control for nearly three decades until Azerbaijan recaptured it in a swift military offensive last year. The aftermath saw over 100,000 Armenian residents fleeing into Armenia, entrenching the bitterness and distrust between the two nations.
The return of the border villages is more than a territorial adjustment; it is a gesture laden with symbolic importance. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s decision to cede these villages, seized in the 1990s, underscores a willingness to engage earnestly in peace negotiations. This move aligns with broader efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement, a goal that has remained elusive despite numerous attempts mediated by both Russia and Western countries.
However, the gesture has not been without repercussions. Within Armenia, the decision has been met with widespread protests, highlighting the internal political strife and the deep-seated mistrust toward Azerbaijan. Yet, from a diplomatic perspective, it is a critical step that demonstrates Armenia’s commitment to peace, even at the expense of domestic approval.
Reconciliation between Armenia and Azerbaijan is crucial not only for the two nations but also for the broader region and global peace efforts. It creates an environment where both countries can transcend the cycles of violence and retaliation that have marred their histories. This process rebuilds trust, opens avenues for economic cooperation and development, and provides a path to healing for citizens affected by decades of hostility. Moreover, achieving a peaceful resolution sets a powerful precedent for other conflict-ridden regions, demonstrating that even the most entrenched disputes can be resolved through dialogue and compromise. Ultimately, reconciliation lays the cornerstone for enduring peace and stability, offering future generations a foundation to live in harmony.
The geopolitical landscape surrounding the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict has also seen significant shifts. Moscow’s recent recall of its ambassador for “consultations” signals a deterioration of its historically strong ties with Yerevan. This move, typically indicative of severe diplomatic discontent, adds another layer of complexity to the already tenuous situation. Armenia’s rift with its traditional ally, Russia, stems from Moscow’s perceived failure to uphold its security treaty obligations, particularly during the 2020 conflict. As Armenia navigates its foreign relations amidst this strained alliance, the support and mediation from Western countries become ever more crucial.
The reoccupation of the four villages by Azerbaijani border guards, following the border demarcation deal, reflects a practical implementation of the peace efforts. However, the journey towards a comprehensive peace agreement will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges. Building trust between the two nations, addressing the humanitarian concerns of displaced populations, and managing internal political dissent are just a few of the obstacles that lie ahead.
While the return of the villages is a positive step, it is merely the beginning of a long and complex process of reconciliation. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan must continue to engage in open dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and commit to peaceful resolutions to their disputes. The recent developments between Armenia and Azerbaijan offer a glimmer of hope in a region marred by decades of conflict. The decision to return the villages, though controversial, is a courageous move towards peace and stability. Diplomacy, patience, and a genuine commitment to reconciliation will be essential as both nations navigate this pivotal period.
In the end, the path to peace is seldom straightforward. Yet, by taking these initial steps, Armenia and Azerbaijan have signaled their readiness to break the cycle of enmity and build a future where both nations can coexist in harmony. The international community must support and encourage this process, recognizing that peace in the Caucasus is a goal worth striving for, not just for the region but for the world at large.
—The author is a Pakistani law student at Liverpool John Moores University, UK.
