The longstanding conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region has resulted in one of the most pressing humanitarian crises in the region. This conflict, which reignited violently in 2020, has caused significant displacement, loss of life, and widespread destruction, impacting thousands of civilians. UnityRightsNetwork is dedicated to addressing the humanitarian needs arising from this crisis and advocating for a peaceful resolution.
Background of the Conflict
The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has deep historical roots, with both Armenia and Azerbaijan claiming the region. The conflict first erupted into full-scale war in the early 1990s following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Despite a ceasefire in 1994, sporadic violence continued until it escalated again in September 2020, leading to a six-week war that resulted in significant casualties and territorial changes. A Russian-brokered ceasefire in November 2020 ended active hostilities, but tensions and occasional clashes have persisted.
Humanitarian Impact
The 2020 conflict caused extensive human suffering and displacement:
- Displacement: Over 90,000 people were displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh, fleeing the violence and seeking refuge in Armenia and other regions. Many of these displaced persons live in temporary shelters under precarious conditions (Crisis Group).
- Casualties: The conflict resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries on both sides, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
- Infrastructure Damage: Homes, schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure were destroyed or damaged, exacerbating the humanitarian situation and making recovery efforts more challenging.
UnityRightsNetwork’s Response
UnityRightsNetwork has implemented a multi-faceted approach to address the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict:
- Emergency Relief:
- Shelter and Basic Needs: We provide temporary shelters, food, water, and essential supplies to displaced families to ensure their immediate survival and well-being.
- Medical Assistance: Mobile clinics and support to local hospitals have been established to provide urgent medical care, including treatment for injuries and ongoing health conditions.
- Education and Child Protection:
- Safe Learning Spaces: We have set up temporary schools and educational programs to ensure that displaced children continue their education and receive psychosocial support to cope with the trauma of conflict.
- Child Protection Services: UnityRightsNetwork works to protect children from exploitation, trafficking, and recruitment by armed groups by offering legal aid and support services.
- Community Support and Rehabilitation:
- Reconstruction Efforts: We are involved in rebuilding homes, schools, and healthcare facilities to help communities recover and regain a sense of normalcy.
- Economic Empowerment: Programs to support livelihoods, including vocational training and small business grants, are being implemented to help displaced persons and affected communities rebuild their lives.
- Advocacy and Awareness:
- Global Advocacy: UnityRightsNetwork is raising international awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh and advocating for increased humanitarian aid and political support for a peaceful resolution.
- Conflict Resolution Efforts: We are supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting peace agreement that respects the rights and needs of all affected populations.
The Path Forward
The situation in Nagorno-Karabakh requires ongoing international attention and support. UnityRightsNetwork calls on governments, international organizations, and individuals to join us in our efforts to provide humanitarian aid and advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. By addressing both the immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts, we aim to restore hope and stability to the lives of those affected by this protracted conflict.
How You Can Help
- Volunteer: Join our network of volunteers and contribute your skills to support our humanitarian initiatives.
- Advocate: Spread awareness about the crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh and urge your local and national leaders to support international humanitarian efforts.
Visit UnityRightsNetwork.org to learn more about our work and how you can get involved. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to the people affected by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
For more detailed information on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and its humanitarian impact, refer to reports from Crisis Group, The New Humanitarian, and European Commission (Crisis Group) (Homepage | Concern Worldwide) (The New Humanitarian).