Armenian inmates in Azerbaijan reportedly attempt self-harm

In the Caucasus region, where change is underway, concerns over the health and psychological conditions of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan have come to the forefront. Siranush Sahakyan, an advocate for Armenian prisoners in international courts, recently spoke to RFE/RL about the serious issues being reported by the families of these detainees.

Among the detainees, Vigen Euljekjian, a Lebanese-Armenian, has been on hunger strike for over 20 days. Euljekjian, who began his hunger strike in May 2022, has been in Azerbaijani captivity since the end of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War of 2020.

Sahakyan did not disclose the names of the prisoners who have attempted suicide, but it's been reported that such attempts have occurred. These suicide attempts were reported following recent phone calls between the prisoners and their relatives.

The families of the Armenian prisoners have reported serious health issues and severe psychological conditions to Sahakyan. However, information about the detainees' condition has been scarce since the Red Cross's absence. The Red Cross had been the only international and independent humanitarian organization paying visits to the Armenian prisoners, but it halted its activities in Azerbaijan on the same day the news of the suicide attempts was reported.

The Red Cross last visited the Armenian prisoners in June, and since then, there has been no clarity on how visits will happen in the future. The organisation has tried to discuss 'possible alternatives' for their visits with Azerbaijani authorities, but there is currently no definitive answer.

It's important to note that Azerbaijan officially has 23 Armenian prisoners in its custody, including former Nagorno-Karabakh state officials. The issue of these prisoners has been a topic of discussion between international leaders, such as former US President Donald Trump. During a conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on 8 August, Trump claimed he would help secure the release of Armenian detainees.

In an effort to support independent journalism in the region, a newsroom powered by readers is being built. This initiative aims to provide accurate and timely information about the ongoing situation of the Armenian prisoners and other important issues in the Caucasus region.

As the situation unfolds, it's crucial that the international community remains vigilant and advocates for the rights of these prisoners. The health and well-being of these individuals should be a priority, and efforts should be made to ensure they receive proper care and treatment.