Bishop Hovakim Manukyan and Christian leaders urge UK action on release of Armenian detainees unlawfully held in Azerbaijan
2 minute read
Bishop Hovakim Manukyan of the Diocese of The Armenian Church of the United Kingdom & Ireland, together with a group of Christian leaders, has sent a letter to the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing deep concern over the unlawful detention of 23 Armenians by Azerbaijan. Following the forced displacement of 120,000 Armenians from Artsakh in 2023, these individuals—including former government officials, prisoners of war, and civilians—are facing fabricated charges, unfair trials, and inhumane treatment in Baku.
The letter highlights the violation of international human rights laws, the denial of legal representation, and the expulsion of humanitarian organizations from Azerbaijan, leaving detainees in complete isolation. Bishop Manukyan calls on the UK to take a firm stance and urge Azerbaijan to comply with its international obligations.
"Their continued detention and ongoing trials constitute flagrant and gross violations of International Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. A firm stance from the United Kingdom and a strong message that Human Rights violations will not be tolerated, will help ensure that justice prevails."
The Armenian community in the UK and Ireland continues to stand for justice and human rights.
