European Parliament Declares Armenians Held in Azerbaijan as POWs, Demands Immediate Release

STRASBOURG — The European Parliament has classified Armenians detained in Azerbaijan as prisoners of war (POWs), demanding their immediate and unconditional release. The resolution was adopted today by an overwhelming majority of 523 votes in favor, 3 against, and 84 abstentions.

The joint document, supported by all major political groups of the European Parliament, emphasizes that the trials against Armenians are fabricated, and the detainees have been subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment, including the use of prohibited psychotropic substances.

“These individuals are subjected to inhumane and degrading treatment, including forced administration of prohibited psychotropic substances,” emphasized the resolution. It further criticizes the inability of independent organizations to monitor these fabricated trials and conditions in Baku, which also restricts the International Red Cross.

During discussions, Member of Parliament François Bellamy questioned the disparity in responses to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine compared to Azerbaijan’s aggression. “Why is Putin’s attack on Ukraine condemned and punished, while Aliyev’s aggression remains unpunished? Is receiving gas from Baku any less unacceptable than receiving it from Moscow? Isn’t it essentially the same?” Bellamy asked.

Co-author of the resolution, Miriam Lexmann, strongly advocated for the EU to stop appeasing Azerbaijan’s leadership and end the expansion of economic cooperation. “We cannot continue to compromise our values for economic and energy interests,” she argued, insisting on an end to illusions about strategic partnership.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen’s speech highlighted the clear divergence between the Parliament’s tough stance and the softer language from the European Commission. Unlike the Parliament, Jørgensen refrained from explicitly calling for the immediate release of detainees, focusing instead on regional peace and dialogue.

“We will utilize every opportunity to support the dialogue necessary for lasting peace,” Jørgensen stated, though he avoided specifying detailed actions.

Bernardo Barena Arza directly challenged the European Commission regarding their stance on Azerbaijani actions, but his question remained unanswered by Jørgensen.

Since the 44-day war, European Council President Charles Michel has facilitated several meetings between leaders Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev to normalize relations. Despite these efforts, Aliyev has continued aggressive rhetoric over the past two years.