The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh between Armenia and Azerbaijan continues to attract the interest of the international community. The two countries once again find themselves before the International Court of Justice to resolve their differences. The hearing follows Azerbaijan’s lightning offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh, which led to the mass displacement of the region’s Armenian population.
Armenia is asking the court to force Azerbaijan to withdraw its troops from Nagorno-Karabakh and allow the safe return of displaced Armenians. Yerevan also demands that Baku refrain from preventing the return of displaced people and facilitate their departure from Nagorno-Karabakh for those who wish to do so.
The legal battle between the two countries has been going on for years. Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous region with an Armenian majority, proclaimed its independence from Azerbaijan in 1991 with Armenian support, following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since then, Nagorno-Karabakh separatists have resisted Baku’s attempts to regain control of the region, leading to two wars and a climate of ongoing tension.
The ICJ already ruled last February in favor of Armenia, ordering Azerbaijan to guarantee free movement on the Lachin corridor, a crucial communication route for supplying the population of Nagorno-Karabakh. .
However, despite the ICJ’s decisions, it is important to emphasize that the court has no way of enforcing them. So, although these hearings may bring some justice and recognition to the parties involved, they do not guarantee a definitive resolution of the conflict.
It is encouraging to see that Armenia is also seeking justice before other international legal forums, such as the International Criminal Court. However, it is important to note that these steps can also further complicate the diplomatic situation between the countries involved.
Territorial conflicts like that of Nagorno-Karabakh are complex and multidimensional. They require a balanced approach and a desire for dialogue and compromise on the part of the parties in conflict. The hearings at the ICJ are an important step in the search for a peaceful and lasting solution, but much work remains to be done to achieve a definitive resolution of this dispute.