Artsakh Republic to Cease Existence on January 1, President Announces

In a historic and unexpected turn of events, President Samvel Shahramanyan of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) issued a presidential decree on Thursday that will lead to the dissolution of the Artsakh Republic, effectively ending its existence as of January 1, 2024. The announcement comes in response to the Azerbaijani occupation and military attacks since September 19.

The presidential decree, emphasizes the importance of ensuring the physical safety and vital interests of the people of Artsakh. It takes into consideration an agreement brokered through the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent, in which representatives of Azerbaijan pledged to facilitate the free, voluntary, and unrestrained passage of Nagorno-Karabakh residents, including armed servicemen, along the Lachin corridor.

The decision, as outlined in the presidential decree and in accordance with article 93 of the Nagorno-Karabakh Constitution, is twofold:

1) Dissolution of All State Institutions and Organizations: All state institutions and organizations under the administrative jurisdiction of Artsakh are to be dissolved by January 1, 2024. This action signifies the cessation of the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) as an independent entity.

2) Population Reintegration and Independent Choice: Following the immediate entry into force of the decree, the population of Nagorno-Karabakh, including those residing outside the Republic, is urged to review the conditions presented by Azerbaijan for reintegration. Residents will be encouraged to make an independent and individual decision regarding the possibility of staying or returning to Nagorno-Karabakh.

President Shahramanyan's decree is scheduled to enter into force immediately upon its publication, marking the beginning of an unprecedented period of ethnic cleansing in the region.