ARF reaffirms joint responsibility for Artsakh, Armenian issues

PanARMENIAN.Net - More than 20 delegates from various European countries gathered in Almelo, the Netherlands, on November 29–30 for the biennial conference of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Armenian Cause Committees of Europe, organized by the party’s European Office.

The delegates, representing politically engaged and active ARF Armenian Cause Committees, reviewed their recent work and reaffirmed their shared responsibility in securing international support for Armenia in the face of current challenges, according to a statement from the ARF Armenian Cause Central Office.

Key issues discussed included ongoing efforts to release Armenian hostages held in Baku, protection of Armenians displaced by the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh, and the defense of the inalienable right of Artsakh Armenians to return to their homeland. Special attention was paid to preserving Armenian cultural heritage in Artsakh. Delegates also emphasized the need to increase youth engagement in Armenian Cause initiatives across communities.

"The conference also addressed the backsliding of democratic processes within Armenia, which participants said significantly hampers the ARF European Office’s ability to advocate for Armenia's interests internationally," the statement read.

In this context, ARF Armenian Cause International Committee Chair Hakob Ter-Khachaturian stated: "Europe holds a vital and unique place in the Armenian Cause network. It is essential to strengthen the already active work of the central office in Brussels and the regional committees across different countries. These bodies must receive full support and care from our global network. We all share the responsibility for implementing decisions taken at this conference, whether strengthening Armenian statehood, defending Artsakh’s rights, advancing Armenian Genocide recognition and reparations, protecting diaspora Armenian rights, or promoting youth unity and political engagement."

Participants also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation with foreign-language media to bridge the information gap between Armenian realities and European perceptions. Mechanisms were discussed to better communicate the Armenian side’s positions and challenges to the international community, especially concerning the Armenian Church and the rights of the people of Artsakh.

At the close of the conference, Gaspar Karapetian, Chair of the ARF Armenian Cause European Office, thanked the delegates for their effective work and noted: "The Armenian nation is going through one of the most dangerous periods in its history, with key institutions under constant threat. Nevertheless, this gathering and the collective sense of responsibility it represents reaffirms our unwavering commitment to confronting and overcoming these challenges. Through the work of the ARF European Office and national committees, critical steps have been taken to advance the right of return for Artsakh Armenians and to secure the release of hostages held in Baku."