Armenia’s Foreign Minister Grateful to UNESCO Despite Azerbaijan Controversy

In the face of an escalating humanitarian crisis, Armenia expressed its gratitude for the rapid deployment of a UNESCO emergency mission aimed at assessing the educational needs of more than 100,000 refugees, including 30,000 children, who fled their ancestral homes in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). The mission's swift response has been a beacon of hope for the displaced population, offering vital support during these challenging times.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan addressed the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference, commending the organization for its timely intervention. "I wish to extend Armenia's gratitude to UNESCO and its Director-General for the rapid deployment of the UNESCO emergency mission to Armenia for the assessment of educational needs of refugee children," stated Minister Mirzoyan, highlighting the organization's crucial role in addressing the pressing needs of the displaced children.

However, amidst this backdrop of gratitude, controversy has engulfed UNESCO following the appointment of Azerbaijan as the Vice-President of the 42nd General Conference. The decision has sparked outrage and condemnation from international observers, raising questions about the organization's integrity and commitment to human rights.

French journalist Jean-Christophe Buisson, the deputy director of Le Figaro daily, voiced his dismay on social media, labeling UNESCO's move as a "disgrace." Buisson highlighted UNESCO's failure to condemn Azerbaijan's actions during the 9-month blockade of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), which resulted in the deprivation of thousands of Armenian children of essential resources, education, and basic necessities. The blockade ultimately led to the ethnic cleansing of the indigenous Armenian population in Artsakh.

"UNESCO did not see fit to condemn the Azeris during the 9 months during which they prevented thousands of Armenian children from following their school process through the blockade of Artsakh. And it elects Azerbaijan to the vice-presidency of its General Conference! Disgrace," remarked Buisson, capturing the sentiments of many who share his concerns.

The decision has sparked a global outcry, with many expressing disappointment and concern about the organization's credibility. Critics argue that appointing Azerbaijan to such a prominent position contradicts UNESCO's fundamental principles of promoting education, peace, and cultural understanding. The lack of condemnation for Azerbaijan's actions during the blockade of Artsakh has only intensified the scrutiny surrounding this controversial appointment.

As the international community grapples with these developments, Armenia continues to focus on addressing the urgent needs of the displaced population, especially the children, while calling for a reevaluation of the decisions made at the UNESCO General Conference to uphold the organization's core values and principles.