Ruben Vardanyan, the last of 16 ethnic Armenians tried by Azerbaijan, received a 20-year prison sentence. This decision is a culmination of a high-profile trial related to events in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Amnesty International has condemned the conviction, labeling it a serious miscarriage of justice.
Key Facts about Ruben Vardanyan’s Trial
- Individual: Ruben Vardanyan
- Charges Filed: Over 40 charges, including “terrorism” and “crimes against humanity”
- Date of Conviction: February 5, 2024
- Trial Nature: Conducted in a military court
- Azerbaijan’s Allegations: Related to financing terrorism and creating illegal armed groups
- Background: Vardanyan moved from Russia to Nagorno-Karabakh in 2022
- Date of Detention: September 27, 2023
Amnesty International’s Stance
Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, described the trial as fundamentally flawed. She stated that the trial lacked transparency and fairness. The proceedings were held in a language unfamiliar to Vardanyan and other defendants, raising serious legal concerns.
Additionally, Amnesty International highlighted that the convictions represent an insult to the victims of past conflicts and crimes against international law. Struthers emphasized the need for Azerbaijan to comply with international human rights standards concerning trials and fair legal representation.
Context of the Trial
The trial follows a significant military action by Azerbaijan in Nagorno-Karabakh, which resulted in a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians. On February 5, 2024, the same court sentenced 15 other defendants, including former leaders of the self-declared “Republic of Artsakh.” Sentences ranged up to life imprisonment for five of these individuals, including Arayik Harutyunyan.
Accumulated Charges Against All Defendants
| Defendant Category | Total Crimes |
|---|---|
| All Defendants | 2,548 crimes |
| Types of Crimes | Genocide, slavery, enforced disappearance, financing terrorism |
Azerbaijan’s actions during and after the trial continue to raise alarm among human rights advocates. With calls for thorough investigations into procedural violations, the international community is closely monitoring the situation.
