World Council of Churches calls for immediate release of Armenian prisoners

Following the 58th session of the U.N. Human Rights Council, the World Council of Churches has issued a statement demanding the immediate release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan.

“The World Council of Churches expresses deep concern over the continued illegal detention of Armenian prisoners. Taking and holding individuals hostage is a serious violation of fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions,” reads the statement.

It notes that from November 2020 to October 2023, Azerbaijan has illegally detained at least 23 Armenians, including civilians, former and current officials, and military personnel. “Many of them, as documented by human rights organizations, have been subjected to torture and inhumane treatment,” the organization stated.

“We reaffirm the demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all unlawfully detained individuals. Long-term detention, accompanied by violations of legal protections, undermines efforts for stable peace and reconciliation in the region,” reads the statement.

The statement also calls on the U.N. Human Rights Council to take all possible measures to ensure the release of Armenian hostages, urging all parties to fulfill their legal obligations under international law.

“The World Council of Churches expresses its solidarity with the Armenian Church and people, as well as with all those affected by this situation, and reaffirms its commitment to justice and peace,” the organization stated.