UN high commissioner for human rights demands release of Armenians held in Azerbaijan

On March 3, during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called for the immediate release of Armenians arbitrarily detained in Azerbaijan, the Permanent Representation of Armenia to the U.N. Office in Geneva reports.

“Türk specifically addressed the issue of all individuals arbitrarily held in Azerbaijan, including ethnic Armenians, stating that ‘they must be released immediately, and their right to a fair trial must be fully respected,'” reads the statement from the Embassy of Armenia in Switzerland.

Türk also noted that he is closely monitoring the ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He expressed hope that the talks “will lead to the uncovering of the truth, healing, and a reconciliation process,” and that he is ready to offer his support.