EU Parliament Calls on Azerbaijan to Release Armenian POWs, Ensure Safe Return of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians
Baku Must Comply with Ceasefire Agreement, Respect International Humanitarian Law
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling on Azerbaijan to release all remaining Armenian prisoners of war (POWs) and ensure the safe return of Armenian civilians to Nagorno-Karabakh.
The resolution, passed on Wednesday by a vote of 633 to 2, condemns Azerbaijan's "gross violations" of international humanitarian law during the recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and calls for an independent investigation into alleged war crimes.
Azerbaijan's Obligations Under Ceasefire Agreement
The European Parliament stressed that Azerbaijan is obligated under the November 10, 2020 ceasefire agreement to release all Armenian POWs and ensure the safe return of Armenian civilians to Nagorno-Karabakh.
The resolution also calls on Azerbaijan to provide information on the whereabouts of missing Armenian soldiers and civilians and to cooperate with international organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, in the search for and repatriation of the remains of those killed in the conflict.
Respect for International Humanitarian Law
The European Parliament condemned Azerbaijan's "indiscriminate attacks" on civilian areas during the conflict, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians and the destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals.
The resolution stressed that Azerbaijan must respect international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Call for Independent Investigation
The European Parliament called for an independent investigation into alleged war crimes committed during the conflict, including the summary execution of Armenian POWs and the use of cluster munitions against civilian areas.
The resolution also stressed the need to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable and to ensure that justice is served for the victims.